Adaptation of Mammalian Cells to Growth in Serum-Free Media

The intent of this chapter is to discuss mammalian cell adaptation procedures useful in the development of cell phenotypes compatible with extended cultivation in suspension culture, without serum, and at high cell densities. Such phenotypes are useful for the production of recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies for therapeutic or diagnostic applications. Emphasis will be placed on Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells due to their widespread use throughout the biotechnology industry. However, the general principles of cell adaptation can be applied to other animal cells, including baby hamster kidney (BHK) and hybridoma cells.