The use of fetal bovine serum: ethical or scientific problem?

摘要: Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is a common component of animal cell culture media. It harvested from fetuses taken pregnant cows during slaughter. FBS commonly by means cardiac puncture without any form anaesthesia. Fetuses are probably exposed to pain and/or discomfort, so the current practice fetal blood harvesting inhumane. Apart moral concerns, several scientific and technical problems exist with regard use in culture. Efforts should be made reduce or, preferably, replace it synthetic alternatives.