Human serum albumin is typically used as a supplement in cell culture to increase the growth and productivity of cells and increase overall cell health. Serum albumin carries and delivers important nutrients to cells. Albumin maintains the stability of cell membranes, hormones and growth peptides. It binds toxins and free radicals to reduce damage to cells. In serum-free media, serum albumin is often used in place of fetal bovine serum. It has been effectively used for cell washing and cryopreservation.