For optimal performance with our primary cells and cancer cell lines, we strongly recommend using Ascent Research's proprietary medium. These have been rigorously validated through our quality control processes to ensure consistent cell growth, morphology, and biomarker expression. For other cell types, our technical team can provide detailed media recommendations tailored to your specific application needs. While customers may choose alternative brands, please note that we can only provide limited technical support for cultivation issues arising from third-party media.
We recommend using gelatin-based coatings (0.1% sterile-filtered) for most adherent cell cultures. Standard protocol involves 30 minutes to 2 hours coating at 37°C, followed by careful rinsing with PBS. For specialized applications requiring extracellular matrix components, we can provide guidance on collagen I or poly-L-lysine coating protocols. Our technical team is available to advise on optimal surface treatment for your specific cell type and experimental goals.
Cryopreserved cells maintain stability for at least one year when stored in liquid nitrogen vapor phase (-150°C or below) or submerged in liquid nitrogen (-196°C). Complete media should be stored at -20°C and used within three months, while growth factor supplements are most stable at -80°C in single use aliquots. For best results, we recommend using all products as soon as possible after receipt and avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Primary cells are typically shipped at early passages (P0-P1), while cancer cell lines are generally delivered around passage 10. Our technical documentation provides specific recommendations for maximum recommended passages in culture for each cell type.
The relationship between passage number and population doublings varies significantly by cell type, while passage number simply counts subculture events, population doublings reflect actual cell divisions, and better indicate replicative history.
Most in-stock items ship within 1-2 business days, with all cell shipments packed in dry ice containers designed to maintain temperature for at least five days of transit. Custom products and primary cell collections require additional processing time, which our customer service team will confirm upon order placement. You'll receive automated shipping confirmations with real-time tracking links via email.
Each cryovial contains around 1×10⁶ viable cells, with typical viability exceeding 90% when properly thawed and cultured according to our protocols. Detailed cell counts and viability data are provided in the product datasheet. For applications requiring precise cell numbers, please consult our technical support team for customized solutions.
Our primary cell products include comprehensive donor metadata, including age, sex, and relevant clinical history. We can also accommodate requests for cells from specific donor populations or with particular clinical characteristics, though these typically require 8-12 weeks for procurement and quality control procedures. All donor materials are obtained through IRB-approved protocols with documented informed consent.
We offer custom engineering of reporter constructs, including fluorescent proteins (EGFP, mCherry) and bioluminescent systems (Firefly, NanoLuc®). Our standard workflow includes promoter optimization and antibiotic resistance selection, with typical delivery timelines of 10-12 weeks for custom engineered cell lines. Please contact us to discuss specific vector design requirements.
All cell products undergo rigorous quality testing, which may include: mycoplasma screening, sterility testing (bacteria/fungi/yeast), STR profiling, species verification by qPCR, pathogen testing (HIV-1/HBV/HCV), viability assessment, RT-qPCR, and Western Blot (WB) analysis. Full quality control documentation accompanies each shipment, and additional testing can be performed upon request for specialized applications.
We do not recommend refreezing thawed cells as it severely damages viability and functionality, compromising your experiments. For best results, use freshly thawed cells immediately. Contact us for proper cell handling guidance.
Place orders directly on our website: select your products, proceed to checkout, and receive an email confirmation. Alternatively, you can email Purchase Order (PO) to info@ascentresearch.com, and we will confirm within 12 hours with your order details. Need help? Contact us by email for assistance (response within 12 hours). For urgent requests, call +1-202-949-4794.
All items are in stock unless otherwise noted. For bulk orders or specific batch requests, email info@ascentresearch.com to confirm and reserve inventory.
Check real-time status in your account's "My Orders" or via automated email updates.
We ship globally via FedEx Global or World Courier. For faster delivery, we recommend purchasing through our authorized distributors.
We accept credit card payments (processing fees may apply) and bank transfers. E-invoices are sent after order confirmation. Failed/canceled payments remain in "My Orders" for 24 hours; you can retry payment or delete the order.
Returns are generally not accepted due to product specialization. Exceptions require verification under these conditions:
Transport Damage: Report with unboxing video/photos within 24 hours of delivery;
Contamination: Submit test report from approved institution within 10 business days;
Viability Issues: Provide trypan blue assay data within 5 days.
Return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility; we cover replacement delivery.
Products are for research use only. Clinical, diagnostic, or commercial use is strictly prohibited.
Cancel anytime before order confirmation. After confirmation, contact us immediately. No cancellations once your order is shipped. We'll email within 1 business day with technical solutions.
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