Optimizing Cell Culture: FBS vs. Alternatives
Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS) is a widely used supplement in cell culture media, derived from the blood of bovine fetuses. Rich in growth factors, hormones, and nutrients, FBS supports the proliferation and maintenance of a variety of cell types in vitro, making it a cornerstone in biomedical research, vaccine production, and regenerative medicine.
FBS alternatives refer to supplements or media formulations developed to replace FBS in cell culture systems. These alternatives are designed to provide the essential nutrients, growth factors, and hormones required for cell survival and proliferation without relying on animal-derived serum.
Featured FBS Products
FBS from different origins
FBS is sourced from regions like the US, Australia, and South America.
FBS with Different Qualifications
FBS is available in multiple qualified forms designed to meet specific scientific needs.
FBS Xtra
FBS Xtra reduces batch variability by optimizing growth factors and improving reproducibility.
FBS Advanced
FBS Advanced offers reduced variability and enhanced consistency for specialized applications
Featured FBS Products
ABS Alternative to FBS
Figure 1: Effect of gender-specific bovine serum on cell proliferation in L6 cells (C). Cells were supplemented with FBS, female serum (FS), castrated male serum (C-MS), or male serum (MS). (Yu et al., 2013)
Adult Bovine Serum (ABS), derived from adult cattle blood, supports cell growth with lower nutrient levels and is suitable for less sensitive cell types
Defined Serum-Free Alternatives
Figure 2 : Growth curves of human fibroblasts in 10% FBS vs XerumFree
Defined serum-free media use synthetic components like recombinant growth factors, ensuring consistency and ethical benefits.
Reduced Serum Content Alternatives
Figure 3 : The viability of different cell lines, cultured with FBS Xtra in reference to standard FBS
Reduced serum media combine minimal FBS with defined supplements, balancing cost and ethics. They support cell viability.
To learn more and find the best solution for your research, explore all our supplements.