Media and Feed Screenings

High-throughput media screening is a micro-scale approach used to evaluate multiple cell culture media and feed formulations concurrently. By comparing many conditions simultaneously, HTMS generates growth and productivity data that helps guide early media selection during upstream process development. It is often used when teams need to assess several candidate formulations quickly before advancing promising conditions into targeted optimization or broader media development workflows. Results are reviewed together, typically within a 12-week timeframe, to support the selection of a lead formulation.

A panel evaluation offers access to a library of ready-to-use formulations with distinct nutrient profiles across amino acids, vitamins, lipids, trace metals, amines, nucleosides, and organic acids. Catalog screening typically offers limited formulation information, making it difficult to conduct a truly diverse evaluation. Panels are designed to maximize formulation diversity, helping identify the nutrients driving productivity more quickly.

The CHO Media and Feed Panel is designed for CHO-based mAb and recombinant protein processes. The Viral Vector HEK Media and Feed Panel targets suspension HEK293 cells for gene therapy applications. The Adherent Kidney Media Panel addresses viral vaccine production using adherent kidney cell lines. The GlycanMod Panel is designed for mAb galactosylation optimization. For further guidance, consult our specialists.

Each panel evaluation includes a study plan and an experimental protocol to structure the screening process, along with technical support throughout the process. The evaluation begins with a kickoff meeting with an FAS, who offers guidance on the protocol based on goals, clone needs, and available equipment. Upon completion, the FAS reviews data on growth, metabolites, titer, and product quality and recommends the next steps.

Panel evaluation results can inform a range of next steps. Spent media analysis or multi-omics profiling can identify opportunities for formulation refinement. When results indicate further optimization is needed, Gibco Media Development Services offers DoE-based and multi-omics-guided workflows. Formulations ready for scale-up can progress to Gibco Rapid Prototyping Services or cGMP manufacturing for manufacturability assessment.