Low cell viability can be caused by several factors, including poor cell handling techniques, contamination, poor culture conditions, and suboptimal growth media. Here are some steps you can take to improve cell viability:
- Check for contamination: Contamination can lead to poor cell viability. Make sure that all equipment, media, and reagents are sterile and free from contamination.
- Improve cell handling techniques: Proper handling of cells is crucial for their survival. Use sterile techniques and avoid over-trypsinization or over-manipulation of cells during subculturing.
- Optimize culture conditions: CHO cells require specific culture conditions to thrive, including temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and nutrient availability. Check that the culture conditions are optimal for the specific CHO cell line being used.
- Optimize growth media: The growth media should contain all the necessary nutrients and growth factors for the specific CHO cell line being used. Make sure that the media is fresh and properly stored.
- Monitor cell density: Over-confluent cultures can lead to cell death due to depletion of nutrients and oxygen. Check the cell density regularly and subculture when necessary.
- Use high-quality cells: Starting with high-quality cells is important for obtaining high cell viability. Make sure that the cells are healthy and free from genetic mutations or abnormalities.
- Try different techniques: If the above steps do not improve cell viability, try using different techniques such as using different culture media or supplements, adjusting culture conditions or subculturing techniques, or transfecting cells to improve viability.