Sales Manager Aurora Microplates San Jose, California, United States
Cyclic Olefin Polymer (COP) is a thermoplastic resin developed by Zeon. COP has unique properties not found in other thermoplastic resins such as high transparency, low autofluorescence, and low impurities that allow for optimal Z-primes for the collection of high precision data when used in the construction of microplates. Combined with our precise molding processes, the extreme flatness of the microplates also allows for a high transmittance window for optical measurements and imaging. A direct correlation can be seen between flatness and data obtained, as imaging times are reduced. In addition, the microplate user needs surface coatings before seeding cells. However, the coating work has high variation which affects the culture results. Pre-coated plates also exist, but they have a short shelf life and require refrigeration, making them difficult to use. Therefore, we have developed ready-to-use COP microplates coated with ZEON’s Innovative coating material (ZIP) for adherent cell culture and assay. It is a chemically defined material and maintains homogeneous surface conditions. The ZIP coated COP microplates can be stored at room temperature for > 12 months. Various types of cells can be cultured using ZIP coated COP microplates. Looking specifically at neuronal cells where neurite length is indicative of culture performance, ZIP coated plates were compared to PDL coated plates. Neurite length was then assessed to see if culture performance improved. ZIP coated COP plates provide the user an alternative to traditional coating methods. Ultimately, the material, flatness, and surface coatings play a crucial role in the construction of the microplate solution and its use in screening and diagnostic applications. In this presentation, we will introduce the following three topics regarding microplates made of COP: • Properties of a COP microplate • The Importance of Flatness • ZIP coated Plates vs PDL Coated Plates
