DMEM low glucose with pyruvate

DMEM low glucose with pyruvate

DMEM low glucose with pyruvate is a basal cell culture medium used to support the growth of many mammalian cells. It contains low glucose (1 g/L), L-glutamine, sodium pyruvate, and phenol red, but does not contain HEPES buffer, providing essential nutrients for cell metabolism. Compared to EMEM, it offers a richer composition of amino acids and vitamins.

This medium is widely used for culturing primary cells and common cell lines such as HeLa, HEK 293, COS-7, and HUVECs. It is suitable for in vitro research requiring stable and consistent growth conditions. Because it is nutrient-rich but serum-free, it must be supplemented with FBS or similar additives.

DMEM low glucose with pyruvate requires a 5–10% CO₂ environment due to its bicarbonate buffering system and does not include HEPES. It should be stored at 2–8 °C, protected from light, and not frozen to maintain stability and performance.