Question: What cell strainers are recommended for single-cell assays?
Answer: We have two recommendations for cell strainers:
Flowmi™ Cell Strainer (40 microns)
For low-volume cell suspensions, a Flowmi™ Cell Strainer (40 microns) is recommended. To use, aspirate the single-cell suspension into a P1000 tip, put the strainer on the end of the tip, and then dispense the filtered cell suspension through the strainer into a microfuge tube.
Pro: Can be used with small sample volumes
Con: Sample concentration is decreased by 20 to 40% after straining
2. MACS SmartStrainer (30 microns)
To minimize changes in sample concentration, a MACS® SmartStrainer is recommended. To use, attach the strainer to the top of a 15mL conical tube and load the cell suspension onto the strainer. The cell suspension filters down through the nylon mesh and removes debris and cell clumps.
Pro: Minimal change in sample concentration
Con: Required minimal volume is ~ 500 µL + loss of sample by 100 -150 µL
Keep in mind that there will be a loss of sample volume with either of these products. For this reason, it is also critical to recount the cell suspension after straining.
Table 1. Comparison of recommended cell strainers.
Products: Single Cell Gene Expression, Single Cell Immune Profiling