How to avoid the formation of bubbles when using pipette? - (Dec/01/2008 )
Hi.
I am completely new to cell culture.
One of the problems that i encounter is that when try to use pipette (with pipette aid) to transfer the medium (DMEM + 10 % FBS), there are always some bubbles formed at the end of the pipette tip when i finish transferring down the medium. Sometimes it drop on the working surface of the hood. It is very inconvenient. Is there any method to avoid this?
-Cityugrad-
Hi,
the most convenient method is to let somebody more experienced show you the basics of cell culture.
You can get a lot of good insights by just watching experienced people handling their cultures, including bubbles and pipetting.
Good luck.
-Bomber-
QUOTE (Cityugrad @ Dec 1 2008, 01:05 AM)
Hi.
I am completely new to cell culture.
One of the problems that i encounter is that when try to use pipette (with pipette aid) to transfer the medium (DMEM + 10 % FBS), there are always some bubbles formed at the end of the pipette tip when i finish transferring down the medium. Sometimes it drop on the working surface of the hood. It is very inconvenient. Is there any method to avoid this?
I am completely new to cell culture.
One of the problems that i encounter is that when try to use pipette (with pipette aid) to transfer the medium (DMEM + 10 % FBS), there are always some bubbles formed at the end of the pipette tip when i finish transferring down the medium. Sometimes it drop on the working surface of the hood. It is very inconvenient. Is there any method to avoid this?
aspire more slowly and no air at the end; however, I do not think that air bubbles are harmful to your cell culture...
-The Bearer-
QUOTE (The Bearer @ Dec 3 2008, 04:36 AM)
QUOTE (Cityugrad @ Dec 1 2008, 01:05 AM)
Hi.
I am completely new to cell culture.
One of the problems that i encounter is that when try to use pipette (with pipette aid) to transfer the medium (DMEM + 10 % FBS), there are always some bubbles formed at the end of the pipette tip when i finish transferring down the medium. Sometimes it drop on the working surface of the hood. It is very inconvenient. Is there any method to avoid this?
I am completely new to cell culture.
One of the problems that i encounter is that when try to use pipette (with pipette aid) to transfer the medium (DMEM + 10 % FBS), there are always some bubbles formed at the end of the pipette tip when i finish transferring down the medium. Sometimes it drop on the working surface of the hood. It is very inconvenient. Is there any method to avoid this?
aspire more slowly and no air at the end; however, I do not think that air bubbles are harmful to your cell culture...
This might seem like common sense, but let go of the trigger while the pipette tip is still over the flask. If you keep aspirating air, bubbles are going to be an inevitable problem. While I know you are looking for an immediate answer, I agree with Bomber; the only way you are really going to learn sterile cell culture technique is by watching others, and through lots of practice. Until you learn the ropes, I would consider working with very small aliquots and working with solutions that contain indicators(to avoid contamination). Good luck, and happy hunting!
-madscientist750-
QUOTE (The Bearer @ Dec 3 2008, 03:36 AM)
QUOTE (Cityugrad @ Dec 1 2008, 01:05 AM)
Hi.
I am completely new to cell culture.
One of the problems that i encounter is that when try to use pipette (with pipette aid) to transfer the medium (DMEM + 10 % FBS), there are always some bubbles formed at the end of the pipette tip when i finish transferring down the medium. Sometimes it drop on the working surface of the hood. It is very inconvenient. Is there any method to avoid this?
I am completely new to cell culture.
One of the problems that i encounter is that when try to use pipette (with pipette aid) to transfer the medium (DMEM + 10 % FBS), there are always some bubbles formed at the end of the pipette tip when i finish transferring down the medium. Sometimes it drop on the working surface of the hood. It is very inconvenient. Is there any method to avoid this?
aspire more slowly and no air at the end; however, I do not think that air bubbles are harmful to your cell culture...
I was always told that "bubbles" are caused by proteins that are being denatured.......I think this is bad, especially if these proteins are cell growth factors!!!!!!!!
To reduce "bubble" formation:
Always have your pipette in the liquid being manipulated
Slow manipulate your solutions: most TC pipettors have a graduated power source i.e. slow, medium and fast on Falcon/Drummond pipettors.
Pipette your solutions down the glass or plastic surfaces you are using for TC
Do not be distracted: Concentrate 110% on what you are doing.....one of the major causes of this problem.
Hope this helps
Kindest regards
Rhombus
-Rhombus-