These procedures are intended as general guidelines and may be adapted depending on specific laboratory protocols
🔬 Preparation of solutions for cell culture
Preparing solutions for cell culture requires particular attention because all solutions must be sterile at the time of use.
Even small contamination can compromise cell viability and experimental reproducibility.
General standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Below are basic guidelines for preparing solutions under aseptic conditions:
Handling reagents
- Use only reagents dedicated exclusively to cell culture applications
- Clean the outside of reagent containers with 70% ethanol before use
- Clean the balance and surrounding area in the same way
Weighing and transfer
- Open reagent containers only for the minimum time required
- Use a sterile spatula or spoon
👉 (can be rapidly sterilized by flaming) - Weigh the reagent in a sterile beaker or on clean aluminum foil
After weighing:
👉 immediately close the reagent container
Preparation of the solution
- Add sterile water (e.g. autoclaved) to reach the desired volume
- If necessary, adjust the pH
👉 Before pH adjustment rinse the pH electrode thoroughly with sterile water. Always sterilize after pH adjustement
Sterilization
Depending on the solution:
- sterilize by filtration (e.g. 0.22 µm filter)
- or autoclave, when compatible
Reagents and media
Commercial reagents and media are generally produced according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
👉 However:
The external surfaces of bottles and containers are not sterile.
⚠️ Important
Before bringing any reagent into the sterile hood: