Transwell Assays: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Transwell assays are a mainstay in cell biology research and are instrumental in studying cellular migration and cell invasion.

A permeable membrane simulates a cellular barrier. If cells migrate through it then these can be stained, for instance with crystal violet, and kept at room temperature. This will be in a 24-well plate. The membrane then needs to be cleaned with distilled water before the migratory cells can be calculated. 

With that completed, an assessment can be made about cell fixation compared to how many cells have migrated. Through this process, transwell assays can provide insights into the mechanisms of cancer cells and their metastasis. It can also offer an understanding of tissue repair and cellular communication.

This article provides an in-depth analysis of transwell assays, examining their advantages, limitations, and exploring alternative methodologies.

How to Perform a Cell Migration Assay

Cell migration is a fundamental process in a variety of biological phenomena. This includes embryonic development, tissue regeneration, immune responses, and cancer metastasis. Understanding cell migration mechanisms is crucial for advancing therapeutic strategies in wound healing, immune therapies, and cancer treatment. Cell migration assays can help with the examination of the migratory responses of cells under various conditions. 

This blog post delves into the methodology of conducting a cell migration assay. It focuses on the scratch assay, one of the most common and straightforward methods to assess cell migration in vitro.

Nickel Thin Films: Properties and Applications

Nickel thin films are at the forefront of numerous technological advancements, offering unique properties that are indispensable in various industries. At Platypus Technologies, we specialize in the metal deposition through e-beam evaporation to create high-quality nickel coatings tailored for diverse industrial applications.

In this blog, we discuss the properties and applications of nickel coatings, as well as the advantages of producing nickel thin films via e-beam evaporation.

Nickel thin films deposited on glass
Nickel thin films deposited on glass, by Platypus Technologies

Why Choose Aluminum Thin Films for Infrared Mirrors?

Aluminum is an excellent material to use with infrared mirror technology. Not only is it versatile, and so can be used in a variety of industrial applications, but it has good conductive and reflective properties that make it perfect for tools that need to use reflective optics to operate, such as telescopes.  This article looks into the rationale behind selecting aluminum thin films for infrared mirrors, while highlighting their unique properties and uses. 

Custom Anti-Reflective Coatings

In an era where optical technology is integral to various industries, the importance of custom anti-reflective (AR) coatings cannot be overstated. These coatings are pivotal in enhancing the performance of optical systems, ranging from everyday eyewear to complex scientific instruments. At Platypus Technologies, we specialize in the design and deposition of custom AR coatings, tailoring solutions to meet the specific needs of our clients.

Palladium Vs Platinum Plating in Biomedical Coatings

In the rapidly evolving landscape of biomedical technology, selecting appropriate materials for medical implants and devices is crucial. Among various options, platinum and palladium have emerged as prominent contenders in biomedical coatings. This article delves into a comparative analysis of palladium and platinum plating, examining their properties, applications, and implications in the biomedical industry.

Fabricating Gold Electrodes for e-Nose Chemical Sensors

Welcome to the fascinating world of electronic noses (e-Noses)—the cutting-edge nano-technology used to detect the presence of various compounds. At Platypus Technologies, we pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of sensor technology, offering bespoke design and fabrication of sensors and electrodes. Our focus in this blog? The role of gold electrodes in e-Nose chemical sensors.

Exploring the Antitumor Effects of Grape Extracts with Oris Cell Migration Assay

In a groundbreaking study by scientists in Italy and France, the antitumor effects of table grape extracts were brought into the spotlight. Employing the innovative Oris Cell Migration Assay, this research offers new hope in the fight against cancer, particularly colon carcinoma.

Why Use Platinum Thin Film Technology for Fuel Cells?

Fuel cells represent a groundbreaking stride in the world of power generators. Yet, the science behind how fuel cells work and the mechanisms driving their efficiency are continuously evolving. Among the advancements, platinum thin film technology stands out as a game-changer. Platinum, already renowned for its catalytic prowess, takes on an enhanced role when incorporated as a thin film in fuel cells. 

Top 5 Reasons Cell Assays Fail

In the dynamic realm of biological research, cell assays are critical tools to unravel the mysteries residing at the cellular and molecular levels. These assays, pivotal in drug discovery, toxicology, and various other fields, are meticulously designed to gauge cellular responses under various conditions. However, the pathway to garnering precise and reliable results is often strewn with unforeseen hurdles. A slight deviation in protocol or a minuscule contamination can lead to an assay failure, rendering hours of labor and resources down the drain.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the top 5 reasons that lead to cell assay failures. By understanding these common pitfalls, researchers can arm themselves with the requisite knowledge to navigate around these issues, thereby bolstering the accuracy and reliability of their results. So, whether you’re a seasoned researcher or a novice in the field, understanding these factors can significantly ramp up the success rate of your cell assays.

Related: Protocol for Cell Migration Assay

Optical Absorption of Gold Thin Films

In the realm of material science and photonics, the optical properties of materials stand as a cornerstone of innovative applications. One such intriguing area of study is the optical absorption of gold thin films. As we venture deeper into nanotechnology’s advancements, understanding these properties becomes paramount.

Gold Thin Films: Reflectivity Across Different Thicknesses

In the realm of optical technology and research, gold thin films have carved a significant niche. Their unique reflective properties make them invaluable in various applications. In this article, we delve deeper into understanding how the thickness of these films—specifically at 100 nanometers, 40 nanometers, and 10 nanometers—affects their optical reflection.

Optical Reflection of Gold Thin Films

Gold, with its radiant gleam, has been revered for millennia, not only for its beauty but also for its unique properties. Especially in the realm of optics, the optical characteristics of gold thin films are pivotal for several groundbreaking technologies and innovations. In this blog, we will discuss the optical reflection of gold thin films.

Optical Transmission of Gold Thin Films

Gold thin films, with their shimmering luster and exceptional properties, have fascinated scientists and engineers for decades. Beyond their aesthetic appeal lies an intriguing realm of optical characteristics that pave the way for groundbreaking technologies. In this blog, we will discuss the optical transmission of thin films of gold.

Optical Applications of Gold Coated Substrates

In optics, gold-coated substrates serve multiple purposes. Gold’s superior reflection of both infrared and visible light makes it ideal for mirrors and filters. Its corrosion resistance ensures durability in challenging conditions. These substrates also play a role in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy, a method analyzing molecular interactions on surfaces. Here, light directed onto a gold-coated substrate helps deduce molecular properties based on reflection patterns. In essence, their reflectivity, stability, and versatility underscore their significance in optical applications.

This article delves into the multifaceted world of gold-coated substrates and their pivotal role in optics.

Why Platinum Metal Surfaces are Ideal for High-Temperature Sensors

High-temperature measurement is a challenging prospect. Sensing elements must be robust enough to withstand the heat without degrading. Yet they also need the right conductivity to ensure measurement accuracy. Crucially: This conductivity must stay consistent across broad temperature ranges. Finding the right material for sensor surfaces is thus a balancing act. 

Platinum is so often a standout material for high-temperature processes. It is routinely applied as a metal substrate in high-sensitivity sensing applications. But why? This article explores the benefits of platinum metal surfaces in more depth. 

Using Aluminum Metal Surfaces to Synthesize Nanoporous Alumina

The synthesis of nanoporous alumina on aluminum metal surfaces has emerged as a groundbreaking technique in material science. This process, known as anodization, leverages the electrochemical oxidation of aluminum to produce a thick oxide layer, resulting in well-defined nanoporous structures with a hexagonal honeycomb-like pattern. This article delves deep into the intricacies of this process, its applications, and its significance in the industry.

Reimagining Cardiovascular Disease Treatment with Fibroblasts

The exciting realm of mesenchymal-to-endothelial transition (MEndoT), though controversial, is an area of research that could radically transform our approach to treating cardiovascular diseases. Key to this is understanding the potential role of fibroblasts – a type of cell known for its role in tissue homeostasis and disease – in the formation of new blood vessels. In this journey of discovery, the Oris Universal Cell Migration Assembly kit has proven to be a critical tool.

Is Silver the Metal Surface of Choice for Optical Devices?

Metal surfaces play a crucial role in various scientific and technological applications. Coatings and patterning techniques offer a means to modify the properties of metal surfaces for specific purposes. In the realm of optical devices, metal surfaces have garnered significant attention due to their unique characteristics. This blog post looks at the topic of metal surfaces, with a particular focus on silver, and explores its suitability as a choice for optical devices.

Using Gold-Coated Substrates to Fabricate Self-Assembled Monolayers

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) play a crucial role in various scientific applications, including batteries, antifouling coatings, and perovskite solar cells. One effective method of fabricating SAMs is by using gold-coated substrates. Gold-coated substrates offer unique properties that make them highly suitable for the formation of SAMs. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of gold-coated substrates in fabricating self-assembled monolayers and also look at the process and applications of this technique.