Improvements in the growth of BHK-21 cells in submerged culture.

A medium is described which will support the submerged culture of BHK-21 cells to 6.5 x 10(6) to 7 x 10(6) cells/ml in volumes up to 30 liters. Shaken-flask cultures were used to determine nutrient deficiencies in depleted medium. The final medium became limited by glutamine at 6.5 x 10(6) to 7 x 10(6) cells/ml, but increasing the glutamine concentration failed to improve cell yields. The value of the polyol Pluronic F68 as a protective substance is illustrated.