When working with live cells on a microscope it is convenient to have an incubator close to the scope. It is beneficial for temporary storage of chambers (to keep them pre-warmed), specimens or media used for perfusion, and most importantly a clean, dry, safe place for heated objectives when not being used. Bioptechs recommends the Boekel Warmer because its small size, light weight. It is not humidified making it an ideal warmed objective storage device. The warmer measures 8" x 8" x 7", operates on 20 watt AC and is small enough to be mounted close to the microscope for temperature controlled perfusion media storage during experiments. The incubators temperature range is ambient +5°C to 42°C. Please specify 115v (PN: 260700) or 230v (PN: 260700-2) when ordering.

Bioptechs recommends using one of three USP Class 6 certified tubings for maximum biocompatibility: PharMed (available through Fisher, VWR and other suppliers), C-Flex, and Tygon 2275.
The main considerations for tubing used for cell culture and microscopy are:

• Size
• Biocompatibility
• Gas permeability
• Autoclavability
• Transparency

Typically, 1/16th" inside diameter tubing is more than adequate to perfuse the small volumes of cells that are used on a microscope. The 1/16th" diameter provides adequate flow and is easily workable. These are the products that Bioptechs has found to be suitable for microscopy applications. All have excellent biocompatibility and nearly zero gas permeability. The main differences are the survivability after autoclaving and transparency. Transparency is an issue when a parallel plate chamber is used. If any bubbles form during the perfusion process and get into the parallel plate optical cavity, they will adhere to the glass and potentially ruin an experiment. If a transparent tubing is used, the bubbles can be seen, giving you time to trap and eliminate them before they do harm. The final issue is autoclaving. All three of the top biocompatible tubings claim autoclavability. However, some survive better than others. The following chart represents Bioptechs' experience in testing these materials.

Part # 20202275 for Tygon 25ft
Part # 2020822 for C-Flex 50ft

• Bioptechs recommends and sells C-Flex tubing. It is available in the 1/16" ID size and sold in 50 foot reels.
• C-Flex is a unique patented thermoplastic elastomer specifically formulated to meet the critical demands of medical, and pharmaceutical, research.
• C-Flex contains no toxic extractables (non-PVC, non-latex, non-silicone)
• Complies with USP XXII, Class VI, FDA and USDA standards.
• Manufactured under strict GMP's in an FDA registered facility
• Significantly less permeable than silicone
• Low protein binding
• Ultra smooth inner bore
• Safely disposable

Additional specifications on C-Flex tubing are available through Bioptechs

Tygon 2275 Tubing
Part# 20202275 (25 FT Roll)

C-Flex Tubing
Part# 2020822 (50 FT Roll)

Connecting tubing to syringes and chambers may require special adapters. Bioptechs has assembled a kit of connectors and adapters that conform to the specifications in the FCS2 or FCS3 induced change drawing. The kit components are pictured below.

The NanoTherm system is an electronic heating and cooling system that provides precisely controlled fluid temperature for cooling and heating applications. This light-weight portable system utilizes solid-state thermoelectric heat pumps that heat and cool with electricity in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.

To assist you and Bioptechs in selecting the most appropriate system to meet
your needs, please review and fill out the following questionnaire.
     Micro-Environmental System Profile Questions (.pdf)
      Micro-Environmental System Profile Questions (.doc)

E-mail:info@bioptechs.com
Phone: (724) 282-7145, Toll-Free 877 LIVE-CELL (548-3235), Fax: (724) 282-0745