"Scratch Assay" Using Ibidi Culture Inserts

November 20, 2015

LMU Munich
Anaesthesiology
Researcher

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Company:

Ibidi

Product Name:

Culture Insert

Catalog Number:

80209

For migrational studies of adherent cells, it is necessary to introduce a scratch into a confluent or subconfluent cell culture. We found this rather difficult using pasteur pipettes or pipette tips. The ibidi culture insert omits the necessity of scratch-making. The silicone membrane divides the plate into 2 wells. Upon careful removal, you get a clear defined cell gap you can study.

Experimental Design and Results Summary

Application

Cell Culture Migrational Studies

Starting Material

Adherent Cells, Cell culture plate (12 well or else), Cell Culture Inserts

Protocol Overview

Introduce Cell Culture Insert into the plate, press firmly to ensure binding to the plate. Seed cells at a density depending on the cell type. Wait for cells to adhere to the cell culture well, then carefully remove the insert with tweezers. Check for cell-free gap, wash with media if necessary

Tips

Be careful removing the insert, sometimes cells stick to the Cell Culture Insert and may be ripped off, too

Results Summary

Good Method for quick screening of cell migrational alterations, produces reliable images.

Additional Notes

None

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Summary

The Good

Quick, affordable Screening method, not many cells needed,, can also be used in transfected conditions. No need to scratch with a pipet.

The Bad

The first couple of times, it was difficult to remove the inserts; because of cell detachment upon cell culture insert removal excessive washing is sometimes necessary. Not suitable for wound closure assays, because the needed "cell damage" achieved by scratching is not generated.

The Bottom Line

Really good product for quick screening of migrational cell behavior, in my opinion not suitable for wound closure investigations. It is affordable and if routinely established, a reliable method.

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