Cell isolation

After the matrix proteins have been digested, cells remain loosely bound together but can be gently separated mechanically.

The most commonly used method for this is flow cytometry, during which an automated analyser inspects a narrow stream of cells.

[4] After a tissue specimen has been obtained, it must be surrounded or perfused by a solution at an appropriate temperature containing the salts and nutrients required to keep the cells alive.

This may be performed by simply submerging the tissue in the solution, or may involve more complex arrangements such as Langendorff perfusion.

Enzymes that digest collagen (collagenases) are often used when isolating cells from the heart or bladder.

[3] When isolating cells from brain tissue, other enzymes that break down DNA (DNAases) may be required.

Isolation of pancreatic islet cells, followed by their subsequent culture and transplantation, has been used to treat patients with Type 1 Diabetes.