New Gradient-Based Cell Labeling Method Maintains Location Information During Downstream Analysis
Enhances cell identification and cell-history recognitionImproves cell migration mappingFacilitates deep characterization of cellular heterogeneityEnables analysis of cell-microenvironment relationships
Biological research and cell-based assaysDisease and cellular ecologyCell signaling
Cellular ecology is a major factor in processes like cell signaling and transport as well as in the development and progression of systemic diseases like cancer. In situ, in vitro studies are becoming more common as researchers seek to understand how cells respond to the physical and molecular signals within their diverse microenvironments.However, downstream analysis tools such as single-cell PCR and flow cytometry require removing cells from their in situ location so that information about their position and history within a culture is lost. Other techniques that use image-based analyses can be used to track position information but are low throughput, computationally intensive and require continuous monitoring.UW–Madison researchers have developed a new device and method for tagging and monitoring individual cells in a microenvironment.Concentrated dye solution is placed within molded wells inside a gel, diffusing throughout to form a color-based gradient. This stamp is then placed over the cell culture to be studied, allowing the dye particles to diffuse into the culture and label the cells. When the cells are removed from their environment for further analysis, the technique allows them to be easily identified and their previous location to be tracked.
For more information about gradient-based assays and microfluidics in cellular environments, see WARF reference numbers: For more information about gradient-based assays and microfluidics in cellular environments, see WARF reference numbers: Moussavi-Harami S. F., Pezzi H. M., Huttenlocher A. and Beebe D. J. 2015. Simple Microfluidic Device for Studying Chemotaxis in Response to Dual Gradients. Biomed Microdevices. 17, 51. Moussavi-Harami S. F., Pezzi H. M., Huttenlocher A. and Beebe D. J. 2015. Simple Microfluidic Device for Studying Chemotaxis in Response to Dual Gradients. Biomed Microdevices. 17, 51. P08041US http://www.warf.org/technologies/summary/P08041US.cmsx Berthier E. and Beebe D. J. 2014. Gradient Generation Platforms: New Directions for an Established Microfluidic Technology. Lab Chip. 14, 3241-3247. Berthier E. and Beebe D. J. 2014. Gradient Generation Platforms: New Directions for an Established Microfluidic Technology. Lab Chip. 14, 3241-3247. P05144US http://www.warf.org/technologies/summary/P05144US.cmsx P04153US http://www.warf.org/technologies/summary/P04153US.cmsx P01417US
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