Measuring Cytopathic Effects of Viral Infections by Applied BioPhysics Inc.


Measuring Cytopathic Effects of Viral Infections by Applied BioPhysics Inc.

Cytopathic effects of viral infections upon cultured cells are difficult to quantify due to the subjective nature of monitoring cell morphology. Applied Biophysics provides instruments and specialized 96 well microplates to detect virus-induced morphological changes quantitatively and in real-time using an impedance-based electrical measurement.

Cells are seeded and grown to confluence upon gold electrodes located on the base of each well of the microplate. The formation of a confluent monolayer is verified using impedance measurements, and the cultures are then infected.

Following the latent period associated with the infection, one begins to see changes in the impedance associated with viral-induced cytopathic activities. Recording the impedance data over a range of AC frequencies allows one to discern different morphological alterations including cell rounding, loss of barrier function, the formation of syncytia, and cell detachment from the substrate. Based on these responses, researchers can begin to explore the effect of different experimental conditions, such as the addition of potential therapeutic compounds.

The Electric Cell-substrate Impedance Sensing (ECIS) measurement is highly sensitive, completely label-free, and non-invasive. All instruments come in turn-key packages ready to be used with your cell incubator and include all electronics, a laptop computer loaded with user-friendly ECIS software, and a supply of 96 well electrode arrays.

For more information and other applications of the ECIS technology please visit http://www.biophysics.com

For further information contact:            

Wendy Ladouceur                    

Applied BioPhysics                 

185 Jordan Road                    

Troy, NY 12180                     

Ph: 1-866-301-ECIS (3247)             

Fax 518-880-6860     

For technical questions:

Dr. Charles Keese

Applied BioPhysics

185 Jordan Road

Troy, NY 12180

Ph: 1-866-301-ECIS (3247)

Fax 518-880-6860

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