Cell Separation Medium (Density Gradient) 

MCE Cell Separation Medium (Density Gradient) is a low-density gradient medium characterized by its broad applicability, operational simplicity, and gentle separation performance. It is primarily composed of silica particles (15-30 nm in diameter) coated with a monolayer of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Due to the heterogeneity in particle size, the particles sediment at different rates during centrifugation, spontaneously forming a continuous, homogeneous, and isotonic gradient with a density range of 1.0-1.3 g/mL.

This medium is suitable for the separation of cells, subcellular organelles, bacteria, and viruses, and can also effectively distinguish intact viable cells from damaged or fragmented cells.

Features of MCE Cell Separation Medium (Density Gradient)

1. Wide separation range: Enables efficient separation of biological particles with sedimentation coefficients greater than 60 S.

2. Mild and non-destructive: Allows gentle isolation of subcellular components and large viral particles (~70 S) while maintaining biological activity and structural integrity.

3. Physiological compatibility: Adjustable to physiological ionic strength and pH for biologically relevant separations.

4. Non-toxic and chemically inert: Exhibits no cytotoxicity and does not adhere to or react with cell membranes.

5. Isotonic gradient formation: Generates a self-forming isotonic density gradient ranging from 1.0 to 1.3 g/mL, ensuring stable morphology and viability of cells.

6. Flexible centrifugation options: Suitable for both pre-formed and self-generated gradients under moderate-speed centrifugation in an angle rotor.

7. Low viscosity: Viscosity of 10 ± 5 cP at 20°C enables rapid gradient formation and efficient particle separation.

8. Excellent stability: Stable for up to 5 years at room temperature when unopened, and for up to 2 years after opening under sterile conditions.

9. Autoclavable: Undiluted solution can be re-sterilized by autoclaving at 120°C for 30 minutes without performance loss.

4°C, 5 years.

Unopened: Store at 4-30°C.

After opening: It is recommended to store the reagent at 4°C under sterile conditions. If stored under non-sterile conditions, the reagent should be frozen at -20°C to prevent microbial growth (ensure sufficient expansion space to avoid container rupture). The maximum storage period is 6 months.

Note: After freezing and thawing, the separation medium may exhibit density gradients or phase separation. Mix thoroughly before use to ensure homogeneity and experimental reliability.

1. It is recommended to use polycarbonate (PC) centrifuge tubes when performing centrifugation with this product. During centrifugation, silica particles may aggregate at the bottom of the tube or at the phase interface, and may adhere to the tube wall. Once dried, these residues can be difficult to remove; therefore, it is advised to rinse all related equipment immediately after use with deionized water to prevent residue buildup.

2. The product remains chemically stable within the pH range of 5.5-10 and is not affected by mild variations in pH. However, gelation may occur below pH 5.5. In addition, the presence of divalent cations or elevated temperatures can further promote gelation.

3. The product cannot be sterilized by filtration. If autoclaving is required, it should be performed only on stock solutions free of salts and sucrose. The presence of salts may induce gelation, while sucrose may caramelize under heat. During autoclaving, minimize air exposure by using narrow-neck containers to reduce solid particle formation. If particles form after sterilization, they can be removed by filtration or low-speed centrifugation. Should volume loss occur after sterilization, the lost volume may be restored with distilled water without affecting the density of the solution.

4. This product is for R&D use only, not for drug, household, or other uses.

5. For your safety and health, please wear a lab coat and disposable gloves to operate.