Have problems with your cell culture or simply want to improve them?
Here are a few tips from our experts that may help take you to the next step:
Documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a bibliography for cellQART®?
Yes, there is. You can view the bibliography for cellQART® here.
Q: I am currently using polycarbonate membrane inserts and want to switch to cellQART®, how will that affect my cells?
cellQART® inserts are polyester (polyethylene terephthalate) track-etch membrane. This difference will likely influence how they grow. We recommend testing different seeding densities that are higher and lower than your current method and proceed in the direction of improved results.
Q: Does the transparency of the membrane affect my results?
Our transparent membranes are better suited for phase contrast and live monitoring.
Q: We use fluorescence microscopy. Should we use transparent or translucent inserts?
Either of our transparent or translucent membranes can be used for fluorescent analysis.
Q: We need a certain level of transparency. Will that influence insert porosity?
Transparency increases as porosity decreases, so porosity requirements will impact transparency.
Q: We’d like better initial cell attachment, is there something we can do?
Prior to seeding, incubate the inserts with the intended media for at least 1 hour at the desired temperature
Q: Some in the field still use insert/membrane coatings even though cellQART® inserts are tissue-culture treated. Is this necessary?
While our membranes are tissue-culture treated to stimulate adherence, some cell types benefit from additional coatings that facilitate growth.
Q: We want cell growth on both sides of the membrane. Is this possible?
Yes! When mounting on both sides of the inserts, first mount cells on the bottom side.
Q: We’re not sure our seeding cell density is optimal. What do we do?
Experiment with two (2) or more densities lower and higher than the current value. Proceed in the direction of improved results.
Q: We are performing cell migration/invasion studies; is pore size important?
Yes, it seems that 3 µm – 8 µm pore sizes are best suited for these studies; but it is critical to check cell size first.
Q: Does transparency influence our cell migration analysis?
The higher porosity of translucent membranes allows for easier cell migration and, consequently, more observations.
Q: We are performing tumor invasion studies. Are there any extra considerations?
Many in the field put a Matrigel or other firm coating on the membrane to better observe cell invasion to the other (bottom) side.
Q: How much fluid should be in the well?
This depends on individual cell-type; but prevent all cells from drying while allowing good gas exchange (where applicable, use proper agitation).
Q: What else should we monitor in addition to routine cell counts?
Almost all cells do best in a tight range of incubation parameters (temperature, CO2 concentration, media condition, humidity, amount of light, etc.). Keep deviation to a minimum.
Q: Cell growth decreases after subculture. How do we avoid this?
Most cell lines have a recommended seeding density, so check guidelines for your specific line. Slow-growing cells may not grow with a small density. Conversely, fast growers may need lower densities to prevent overgrowth and poor morphology. In general, dilutions larger than 10x are not recommended for cells to grow and survive in the subculture. In addition, the typical recommended time for subculture is at 80% confluence (80% of the surface of the flask is covered by cell monolayer).