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Sera Laboratories International Ltd (Sera Lab), the serum specialist, has introduced the novel SplitKits cell dissociation system, the first specifically designed for use in both serum-based and serum-free methodologies. Developed using a vegetable-based component rather than trypsin, SplitKits avoid any risk of contamination with either animal or human viruses or bacteria, and are suitable for a wide variety of cell culture systems. 

Independent studies conducted in both research and biopharmaceutical laboratories have shown that SplitKits encourage faster cell dissociation than trypsin. Greater control of the dissociation process produces homogeneous cell suspensions with minimal batch-to-batch variation. The extremely gentle action of the SplitKits vegetable-based enzyme gives higher cell yields and better cell growth recovery following detachment. In addition, surface epitopes and cell membranes remain unaltered and fully functional, making the kits ideal for use in flow cytometry. 

"Drawing on 30 years of experience in cell culture, we have developed SplitKits to offer a significantly improved alternative to trypsin for either serum-based or serum-free protocols," said Jenny Murray, Sera Lab's Managing Director. "For use in both laboratory cell culture and biopharmaceutical manufacturing, the increasing regulation of the use of animal-based components in the biopharmaceutical manufacturing environment means that SplitKits also offer the industry a potentially safer, more compliant system for cell culture."  

Each SplitKit is composed of vegetable-based enzymatic reagent (SplitCells), AntiSplitCells and SplitCells buffer, to make a fully flexible cell dissociation system that can perform at ambient temperature. There are three different formats in the SplitKits range, each being optimised for use with specific cell types:  SplitKit Strong, for strongly adherent and bioreactor-cultured cells: SplitKit Moderate for moderately adherent cells; and SplitKit Mild for mildly adherent cells.  

For further information on SplitKits, and to order a free sample kit, visit www.seralab.co.uk/splitkits