Lonza Introduces the 4D-Nucleofector™ Y Unit for Efficient Nucleofection™ of Neural Networks

Lonza introduces a new module for the 4D-Nucleofector™ system, the 4D-Nucleofector™ Y unit. The Y unit enables adherent Nucleofection™ of neural cells grown in 24-well tissue culture plates. For transfection, disposable conductive polymer 24-well dipping electrode arrays are inserted into the culture plate.

Dr. Herbert Mueller-Hartmann, Head of R&D Discovery Tools, states that “with the introduction of the Y unit neural networks can be transfected with up to 70% efficiency and analyzed by confocal microscopy or patch clamping when they were plated on coverslips. These transfection efficiencies for neuronal networks could previously only be achieved with viral transfection methods. With the development of the 4D-Nucleofector™ Y unit we are widely expanding the possibilities to successfully transfect neurons non-virally”.

Adherent Nucleofection™ overcomes a general obstacle of electroporation-based methods, i.e., the requirement for cells to be in suspension for transfection. Primary neuronal cells which typically grow in adherence in cell culture can now be kept in their physiological state and transfected by Nucleofection™ at a later developmental stage. This new feature also facilitates the use of the Nucleofector™ technology for cryopreserved Clonetics™ primary neurons which do not always tolerate being transfected immediately after thawing.

Nucleofection™ is a transfection technology that was first introduced into the market in 2001. It is based on the unique combination of electrical parameters and cell-type specific solutions. It is known as the first efficient non-viral transfection method for primary neural cells and has been stated in over 300 peer-reviewed publications as the method of choice for transfection of primary neurons.

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