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Defining Key Membrane Characteristics for Experimental Success
The functionality of a porous cell culture insert is highly dependent on the physical characteristics of its membrane. Two primary parameters—**pore size** and material composition—must be carefully selected based on the specific experimental goals.
Pore sizes typically range from $0.4\,\mu\text{m}$ to $8\,\mu\text{m}$. A smaller pore size ($0.4\,\mu\text{m}$) is often used to establish a tight barrier for transport studies, preventing cell migration through the membrane while allowing molecular diffusion. Larger pores are favored when the aim is to facilitate cell migration or invasion studies, particularly in cancer research or models of tissue remodeling. Common materials include polycarbonate (PC), which offers high optical clarity for microscopy, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), known for its mechanical strength and uniform pore structure. The choice of material and pore size directly impacts the culture's permeability and the ability of cells to form tight junctions, making informed selection crucial for generating reliable and physiologically accurate data in…
