Animal Cell Culture Media: A Historical Perspective

Evolution of Culture Media

Animal cell culture media have come a long way since their inception. Artificial media containing partly defined components have been in use for cell culture since the early 1900s. These early media were relatively simple and lacked the complexity and specificity required for optimal growth and function of animal cells.

Advancements in Media Development

Over time, researchers recognized the need for more complex and refined media. The development of serum-free media in the 1970s marked a significant advancement, as it eliminated the use of animal-derived components and provided a more controlled and reproducible environment for cell culture.

Current Classification of Animal Cell Culture Media

Today, animal tissue culture media are broadly categorized into four major classes:

• Serum-containing media
• Serum-free media
• Protein-free media
• Chemically defined media

Each class offers unique advantages and drawbacks, and the selection of the most appropriate medium depends on the specific cell type and experimental requirements.