The retina is an important in vitro model for the central nervous system. It is more readily accessible than most nervous tissue and is strong enough to remain intact during manipulations. The retina of the rabbit commonly contains no penetrating blood vessels. It is nurtured by diffusion from capillary networks on either side. For this reason, the tissue will survive and functions without circulating blood, as long as it is bathed in a medium that closely resembles in vivo conditions.

White to pale yellow, homogeneous, free flowing powder

Colorless to pale yellow, clear, complete

As Reported

≤1EU/ml

Gas ~900ml of water (15-20°C) with 100% CO2. While gently stirring the water, add 1.9g sodium bicarbonate. Add 8.5g of the powder medium and stir until dissolved. Adjust the pH of the medium to 0.2-0.3 pH unit below the desired level using 1N NaOH and 1N HCl. Add additional water to bring the solution to 1L. Filter-sterilize using a 0.22 micron membrane filter. Aliquot into sterile containers. Do not autoclave. Contains heat-labile compounds that can be damaged with autoclaving.

Store powdered media at 4°C. Opened bottles should be capped tightly and kept in a dark, low humidity environment. Prepared media should be kept at 4°C and used within a short period of time.