Corning Falcon 352350 Polypropylene Cell Strainer User Manual

Introduction

This user manual provides essential information for the proper use and maintenance of the Corning Falcon 352350 Polypropylene Cell Strainer. This device is designed for rapidly isolating primary cells to consistently obtain a uniform single-cell suspension from tissues. Adherence to these instructions will ensure optimal performance and longevity of the product.

Product Overview

The Corning Falcon 352350 Cell Strainer features a strong nylon mesh with 70-micron pores, designed for efficient cell separation. Its polypropylene frame includes an extended lip for aseptic handling and a molded tab for easy identification and manipulation.

Figure 1: The Corning Falcon 352350 Polypropylene Cell Strainer. This image shows the transparent, circular cell strainer with a small tab extending from its rim, designed for easy handling. The fine mesh is visible within the circular opening.

Key Features:

Strong nylon mesh with 70-micron pores for optimal performance.
Evenly spaced mesh pores ensuring consistent and reliable results.
Conveniently accessible in individual packaging to maintain sterility.
Extended lip on strainer enables aseptic handling with forceps.
Molded color-coded polypropylene frame with tab for easy handling and identification.

Setup and Preparation

Unpacking: Carefully remove the cell strainer from its individual sterile packaging. Ensure the packaging is intact prior to opening.
Inspection: Visually inspect the strainer for any damage or defects. Do not use if the product appears compromised.
Placement: Position the cell strainer securely into a 50 mL conical tube or other appropriate collection vessel. The extended lip is designed to rest on the rim of the tube.
Sterility: The product is supplied sterile. Maintain aseptic technique during handling to prevent contamination.

Operating Instructions

Follow these steps for effective cell straining:

Prepare Sample: Ensure your tissue sample or cell suspension is prepared according to your specific protocol.
Position Strainer: Place the sterile cell strainer into a sterile 50 mL conical tube or other suitable collection tube.
Apply Sample: Gently pour or pipette the cell suspension or dissociated tissue sample onto the mesh of the cell strainer.
Filter: Allow the sample to pass through the 70-micron mesh by gravity. For tissue dissociation, gentle pressure with a sterile plunger or the back of a pipette may be used to push cells through the mesh, ensuring care is taken not to damage the mesh.
Rinse (Optional): If necessary, rinse the strainer with an appropriate sterile buffer or media to recover additional cells.
Remove Strainer: Once filtration is complete, carefully remove the cell strainer from the collection tube using the molded tab or sterile forceps.
Proceed: The filtered cell suspension in the collection tube is now ready for downstream applications.

Note: The 70µm pore size is suitable for applications requiring the removal of clumps and debris from cell suspensions, or for isolating specific cell populations.

Maintenance and Storage

The Corning Falcon 352350 Cell Strainer is designed for single-use applications to ensure sterility and prevent cross-contamination. It is not intended for cleaning or reuse.

Storage:

Store in original packaging at room temperature (15-30°C).
Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Ensure the storage area is dry and free from excessive humidity.

Disposal:

Dispose of used cell strainers according to local laboratory waste disposal regulations for biohazardous or general laboratory waste, depending on the nature of the samples processed.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues that may arise during the use of the cell strainer.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Slow filtration rate	Sample too viscous. High cell concentration or large amount of debris. Mesh clogging.	Dilute sample with appropriate buffer. Pre-filter with a larger pore size strainer if excessive debris is present. Gently agitate or use a sterile plunger to aid passage, ensuring not to damage the mesh.
Cells not passing through	Mesh pore size is too small for target cells. Severe clogging.	Verify the appropriate pore size (70µm) for your application. Consider using a new strainer or pre-filtering.
Contamination	Breach of aseptic technique. Damaged sterile packaging.	Ensure strict aseptic technique during all steps. Always inspect packaging before use; discard if compromised.

Specifications

Attribute	Detail
Model Number	352350
Pore Size	70 µm
Material	Polypropylene frame, Nylon mesh
Sterility	Sterile, individually packaged
Compatibility	Designed for use with 50 mL conical tubes
Product Dimensions	9 x 12 x 5 inches (packaging dimensions); 8.82 ounces (weight)
Manufacturer	Corning

Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information and technical support regarding the Corning Falcon 352350 Polypropylene Cell Strainer, please contact Corning directly or refer to their official website.

Corning Life Sciences: www.corning.com/lifesciences

Please have the model number (352350) and lot number (found on packaging) available when contacting support.

Corning 352350