Cell Separation Media FAQs

Ficoll™ is a neutral, highly branched, hydrophilic sucrose polymer that dissolves readily in aqueous solution. Ficoll is a registered trademark held by GE Healthcare (Amersham Biosciences), formerly owned by Pharmacia. One of the most common applications for Ficoll is as a component of density gradient media for the isolation of eukaryotic cells.

Fico/Lite cell separation media should always be stored at refrigerated temperatures. Upon freezing any Fico/Lite product, gradients can form. Slowly thaw the solution and carefully mix it. If no precipitation is visible, the product should still be suitable for use.

No, this is not recommended. Fico/Lite-LymphoH is a ready-to-use solution with a density of approximately 1.077. It is also osmotically balanced for use on specific eukaryotic cells by the addition of an appropriate lower molecular weight chemical. Properly balanced cell separation products will usually have a specific, narrow osmolality range that supports the separation of the desired cell type. Atlanta Biologicals offers Fico/Lite-Platelets, a ready-to-use product for the separation of human platelets.