The Importance of Lab Cell Strainers in Achieving Accurate Flow Cytometry Results
Cell strainers are essential equipment for flow cytometry tests. Let’s find out the significance of using the best lab cell strainers.
As a researcher or scientist engaged in flow cytometry studies, it's common knowledge that cell strainers play a vital role. These strainers, which come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, assist in eliminating undesirable cell debris, clusters, and aggregates from samples.
In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of lab cell strainers, their applications, and cascade straining technologies, and provide a detailed guide on how to use them correctly for optimal performance.
Why Use Cell Strainers For Flow Cytometry?
Flow cytometry is a powerful analytical tool that allows researchers to quantify and analyze cells and particles based on their physical and chemical properties. The primary purpose of using a cell strainer for flow cytometry is to remove unwanted cell debris, aggregates, and clumps that can clog the flow cytometer's nozzle or interfere with laser detection.
How To Use A Cell Strainer For Flow Cytometry?
Using a cell strainer for flow cytometry is a straightforward process that requires minimal equipment and training. Here is a step-by-step protocol on how to use a cell strainer correctly:
Step 1: Choose the best strainer
The first step in using a cell strainer is selecting the right one for your experiment. Sterile cell strainers are essential for experiments requiring aseptic conditions. The most commonly used cell strainer sizes for flow cytometry are 30µm, 40µm, and 70µm.
Step 2: Prepare your sample
Prepare your sample by dissociating or disaggregating the cells using appropriate cell strainer protocols, depending on the tissue type and cell morphology.
Step 3: Place the cell strainer on a collection tube
Place the cell strainer on top of a sterile collection tube or a centrifuge tube that fits the strainer's size.
Step 4: Pour the sample through the strainer
Carefully pour the sample through the strainer using a pipette or a syringe, taking care not to overload the strainer or clog it.
Step 5: Collect the filtrate
Collect the filtrate in the collection tube by gently tapping or pressing the strainer's rim with a pipette.
Step 6: Discard the strainer and process the filtrate
Discard the cell strainer used in a waste container and process the filtrate according to your experimental protocol.
All-Star Strainer
We have a wide range of best Lab Cell Strainers to meet almost any requirement. The following are the various straining/filtration devices available:
Mini-Strainer
• Fills the gap for small sample volumes
• Autoclavable
• Centrifugable
• Sterile, bulk-packed
PluriStrainer
• Available in 15 mesh sizes
• Low-pressure compatible
• Stackable as cascade
• Centrifugable with Connector Ring
• Sterile, single-packed
ÜberStrainer
• Available in 15 mesh sizes
• Low-pressure compatible
• Process unlimited amount of liquid
• Centrifugable
• Sterile, single-packed
Syringe Strainer
• Available in 15 mesh sizes
• Sterile and non-sterile varieties
Membrane Strainer
• Non-hygroscopic membrane
• Low non-specific protein binding
• Biologically inert, non-cytotoxic
• Excellent chemical and temperature resistance
Steel Basket-Strainer
• Excellent mechanical stability of SS 316 steel
• Ideal for removing liquids from a permeable substance.
• Reusable
Re-Strainer (In-Line-Strainer)
• Available in 15 mesh sizes
• 6 ml recovery reservoir
• Two female Luer-lock-ports
• The housing material is LD-PE (Low-Density Polyethylene)
• Withstand pressure up to 3.5 kg/cm2
Conclusion
By using the right cell strainer and proper cascade straining technologies for your experiment and following the correct protocol, you can ensure that your sample is free of impurities and yields accurate and reproducible results.