Is it necessary to heat‑inactivate FBS for use with Normal Human Cells?
No. Heat inactivation of fetal calf serum (FCS/FBS) is generally not necessary when working with Normal Human Cells.
Background
The practice of heat inactivation was originally introduced when serum from adult animals was commonly used. Adult serum can contain high levels of complement, which may damage cells under certain conditions. Heating serum (typically 30 min at 56°C) was intended to inactivate complement activity.
Current practice
FBS contains very low complement activity compared to adult serum.
Today, FBS is often heat‑inactivated without clear evidence of a beneficial effect.
For most cell types and cell lines, including Normal Human Cells, heat inactivation of FCS is not required.
PromoCell practice
PromoCell does not use heat‑inactivated serum for the production of its growth media.
Background
The practice of heat inactivation was originally introduced when serum from adult animals was commonly used. Adult serum can contain high levels of complement, which may damage cells under certain conditions. Heating serum (typically 30 min at 56°C) was intended to inactivate complement activity.
Current practice
FBS contains very low complement activity compared to adult serum.
Today, FBS is often heat‑inactivated without clear evidence of a beneficial effect.
For most cell types and cell lines, including Normal Human Cells, heat inactivation of FCS is not required.
PromoCell practice
PromoCell does not use heat‑inactivated serum for the production of its growth media.
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