RPMI 1640

RPMI 1640 is a type of cell culture medium used in the cultivation of mammalian cells. Developed in 1966 by Moore et al. at the Roswell Park Memorial Institute, RPMI 1640 was originally designed for the growth of human leukemic cells in suspension and monolayer cultures. Since its development, RPMI 1640 has become one of the most widely used media in the research of cancer, immunology, and virology.

Composition

RPMI 1640 contains a variety of nutrients essential for the growth and maintenance of cells in culture. These include amino acids, vitamins, inorganic salts, and glucose as a source of energy. The medium is buffered with sodium bicarbonate and can be supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS), antibiotics, and other additives depending on the specific requirements of the cells being cultured.

Variants

There are several variants of RPMI 1640 available, which have been modified to suit different types of cells and experimental needs. These modifications can include alterations in the concentration of certain components, the addition of L-glutamine, or the removal of phenol red as a pH indicator for specific applications such as live-cell imaging.

Applications

RPMI 1640 is used in a wide range of cell culture applications. It is particularly favored for the culture of human lymphocytes and other cells of the immune system, making it a staple in immunological research. Additionally, its use extends to the culture of a variety of cancer cell lines, where it supports the growth and proliferation of these cells for research into cancer biology and therapeutics.

Preparation and Storage

The preparation of RPMI 1640 can vary depending on the specific needs of the experiment and the type of cells being cultured. Typically, the medium is supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and antibiotics to prevent bacterial contamination. Once prepared, RPMI 1640 should be stored at 4°C and protected from light to maintain its stability. The medium should be warmed to 37°C before use and any unused prepared medium should be discarded after a certain period to avoid contamination and ensure the health of the cells.

Safety Considerations

When working with RPMI 1640 and cell cultures, it is important to follow standard laboratory safety procedures. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), working in a sterile environment to prevent contamination, and properly disposing of waste materials.

See Also

• Cell culture
• Fetal bovine serum
• L-glutamine
• Phenol red