GradientEZ

Patent No. 9,334,473

GradientEZ is a 3D cell migration and invasion assay that enables cells to migrate in three dimensions as they do in living tissues. It is straightforward to use and works like a piece of paper. Simply, pipet cells in the center and add test agents to petals or lobes to model gradient-dependent pathological conditions in 3D. Alternatively, add invasive cancer cells to the center and normal cells to lobes.
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Fluorescently labeled cells or cell populations added to the center or lobes may be imaged and analyzed in real time during or after cell migration studies using fluorescence microscopy. Suitable for both adherent and suspension cells.

GradientEZ 6-lobe graphic
Lobe
GradientEZ 6-petal graphic
Petal

How it works:

GradientEZ workflow 1

Method 1:

Migrating or invading cells, and different cell populations or test compounds may be added to the center and 6 petals or lobes
GradientEZ workflow 2

Method 2:

To test metastatic potential of cancer cells, add invasive cells to the center and normal cells to the lobes 

Benefits

  • Mimics physiological gradients; in vivo cells are exposed to multiple gradients
  • Test several modulators of cell motility or invasion in one well​
  • Test up to six different concentrations in one well
  • Test combination strategies (use an inhibitor and an inducer on opposing petals or lobes to direct cells more efficiently)
  • Setup complex gradients​

Features

  • ​Fits in any Petri dish, 6-well to 12-well plates & 6-well inserts 
  • 6-petal format fits in 6-well to 24-well plates 

Applications

  • Cell migration assays
  • Cell invasion assays
  • Chemo-invasion assays
  • Chemotaxis assays
  • Metastatic potential