Question

Which of the following is not part of the growth medium for animal cell culture?

• A. Starch
• B. Serum
• C. Carbon source
• D. Inorganic salts

Hint:

In animal cell culture, glucose is the preferred carbon source, not starch, as animal cells do not efficiently digest starch.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Animal cell culture media typically contain a carbon source (such as glucose), serum (which provides growth factors), and inorganic salts (for maintaining osmotic balance and pH).
However, \textit{starch} is not typically used in animal cell culture media because animal cells do not metabolize starch as a carbon source effectively. Instead, glucose is the primary carbon source.

(1) Why Other Options Are Correct: - Serum provides essential growth factors that are necessary for the survival and proliferation of animal cells.
- Carbon source is necessary for energy production and is typically glucose or another sugar.
- Inorganic salts maintain osmotic pressure and provide essential ions for cellular functions.

Conclusion: The substance starch is not part of the growth medium for animal cell culture.