FAQ

What can I do with the Live cell metabolic analyzer?

The Live cell metabolic analyzer is an analytical device for use in research that can continuously measure changes in the concentration of glucose and lactate in cells in culture. Using the changes in concentration of glucose and lactate and their metabolic rates, the data can show the degree of dependence on the glycolysis and the state of metabolism activation as continuous changes. The Live cell metabolic analyzer features the ability to carry out continuous, highly accurate measurements and comparisons of metabolism in a normal culture environment.

What are the features of the Live cell metabolic analyzer in comparison to other devices that measure culture media?

Regular culture medium analyzers require sampling of the medium, whereas the Live cell metabolic analyzer can carry out continuous measurement without the need for sampling. Also, while methods that use continuous sensors or near-infrared measurement devices allow continuous measurement, the Live cell metabolic analyzer allows simultaneous measurements to be easily carried out in a 24-well plate, making it extremely convenient for situations such as comparisons of different experimental conditions.

How is the device configured?

The Live cell metabolic analyzer consists of a detector that measures metabolism in a CO2 incubator, and a controller that operates the detector and checks the measurement data. The sensor module incorporates 24 sensors, allowing simultaneous measurement of glucose and lactate concentrations in each well of a 24-well plate.

What kind of environment can the Live cell metabolic analyzer be used in?

You can use any incubator in which the detector (W162×D280×H118 mm, weight 5 kg) can be installed. We recommend the PHCbi MCO-50, 170, and 230AIC series incubators. The detector can also be installed in other incubators; please contact us for details. Space is also needed to install the controller near the incubator.

What will I need to carry out measurements with the Live cell metabolic analyzer?

You will need to prepare the medium and cells used in the experiment, a 24-well plate, and any reagents to be added. You will also need a glucose-free medium and commercial lactate reagents for calibration, and you will need to prepare any other equipment and consumables required for cell culture. PHC will provide the sensor module and a plate adapter to fit your 24-well plates. *Our plate adaptors have different designs to fit various plates. Please contact us for details on compatible adapter and plate combinations.

How should the sensor modules be stored?

Sensor modules must be stored at 2–8°C. The expiration date is one year, however only products produced in the first six months after the launch will have a six-month expiration date.

What principle is the measurement based on?

The electrons generated by enzymatic reactions of glucose and lactate are measured as current values by electrochemical sensors.

What is the procedure for metabolic analysis?

Before carrying out measurements with cells, two types of media with known concentrations are measured to create a calibration curve. Normal culture operations such as changing the medium, passaging, and adding reagents can be carried out during the measurement. Measurement data are acquired every minute, and the data can be used to derive metabolic rate data every 15 minutes.

What media and reagents does the Live cell metabolic analyzer support?

The measurement range is ≤27 mM for glucose and ≤15 mM for lactate, and there are proven results from measurement with RPMI 1640 medium, DMEM medium, and other specialized media. Results have also been obtained with 3-BP and oligomycin as additive reagents. Measurement results will depend on the experimental conditions; therefore, we recommend that you carry out trial runs first to confirm performance.

What types of cells can be used?

Measurement results have been obtained with various cell lines, including T cells and iPS cells. The effect of the sensor on cells will be confirmed in accordance with ISO 10993-5: 2009. Measurement results will depend on the experimental conditions; therefore, we recommend that you carry out trial runs first to confirm performance.

How should the device be cleaned and sterilized?

The provided sensor module is gamma-radiated, and is for single use only. It should not be used repeatedly. The plate adapter can be sterilized in an autoclave, and is suitable for repeated use. The exterior and part of the interior of the detector and the controller can be cleaned with ethanol. Do not use hydrogen peroxide for decontamination.