I would like to isolate tumor‑associated macrophages (TAM) from tumor tissue. Which medium should I use?

Tumor‑associated macrophages (TAM) are an important component of the tumor microenvironment. Upon interaction with cancer cells, they typically adopt an anti‑inflammatory, pro‑tumor, and pro‑metastatic M2‑like phenotype.
For the isolation and culture of TAM from solid tumors, we recommend Primary Cancer Culture Medium supplemented with 250 ng/ml M-CSF, which supports TAM growth while reliably preventing stromal overgrowth.
The isolated TAM are non‑proliferating, adherent cells and can typically be cultured for at least two weeks.
 
Alternatively, the following media may be used:
- Macrophage Base Medium XF + 2% human AB serum
- M2‑Macrophage Generation Medium XF
However, please note that these media do not suppress fibroblast growth, resulting in a high risk of overgrowth by stromal cells.