Chemically defined conditions for human iPS cell derivation and culture

We reexamine the individual components for human ES and iPS cell culture, and formulate a cell culture system in which all protein reagents for liquid media, attachment surfaces, and splitting are chemically defined. A major improvement is the lack of a serum albumin component, as variations in either animal or human sourced albumin batches have previously plagued human ES and iPS cell culture with inconsistencies. Using this new medium (E8) and vitronectin-coated surfaces, we demonstrate improved derivation efficiencies of vector-free human iPS cells with an episomal approach. This simplified E8 medium should facilitate both the research use and clinical applications of human ES and iPS cells and their derivatives, and should be applicable to other reprogramming methods.