MEM Alpha Modification, first described by Stanners (1971), is an alteration of MEM (Minimum Essential Medium). MEM was originally developed by Harry Eagle and then modified in several ways (including the alpha modification) to suit many cell culture applications. MEM Alpha Modification formulation is further included non-essential amino acids, sodium pyruvate, lipoic acid, vitamin B12, biotin, and ascorbic acid. It can be used with a variety of suspension and adherent mammalian cells.