Cell Culture Media Change Protocol

Maintaining healthy cell cultures is paramount in any research lab, and a crucial aspect of this is the regular changing of cell culture media. This seemingly simple task involves more than just swapping out old liquid for new. From understanding the optimal frequency of media changes for different cell types – some needing daily attention while others can go longer – to recognizing the visual cues that signal a media change is necessary, the process is nuanced.

What happens if you forget a media change? The consequences can range from stunted growth to irreversible cell damage, especially for sensitive cell lines like stem cells. This article delves into the step-by-step protocol for media changes, covering everything from warming the new media (and the potential contamination risks of water baths) to the crucial aseptic techniques required within a laminar flow hood. We'll also explore the specific considerations for different cell types, including adherent and suspension cultures, and even discuss the delicate process of transitioning cells to a new media formulation.

Want to ensure your cell cultures thrive? Read the full article to learn more about best practices for cell culture media changes and elevate your lab work.