Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) with the expoCube

Characterization of aerosol deposition for in vitro models

To ensure standard, translatable and relevant in vitro data, the dose delivered to the air liquid interface (ALI) cell cultures is paramount. To this end, the expoCube can be equipped with a Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) to allow for real time measurement of the deposited dose.

QCM is an established tool to measure microgram masses. As mass is deposited onto the QCM, the resonant frequency of the sensor changes.

The implementation of a QCM allows for dose measurement to be performed without having to rely on fluorometric or absorbance measurements or other elaborate analytical approaches, like quantitative High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Moreover, many test environments lack an “assay to use” as such the QCM is an invaluable tool to researchers.

Specifications

The expoCube’s Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) allows for real-time measurement of deposited mass ranging from 1 to 100 µg with a resolution of 0.5 µg using the flexiWare software.
These QCMs can operate simultaneously, with up to four sensors running in parallel, making them ideal for assessing well-to-well variability.
Unlike traditional washing methods, the QCM avoids overestimation by preventing measurement of material that may stick to flow pathways or transwell walls.
Additionally, the sensors are ethanol-sterilizable, which is crucial to prevent contamination of cell cultures.
A key design advantage of the expoCube’s QCM is the separation of the sensor from the electronics, ensuring the electronics remain uncompromised even after repeated exposure and use.

Real time flexiWare Software view

The expoCube’s Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) provides real-time measurement of deposited mass, ranging from 2 to 100 µg, with exceptional precision through the flexiWare software. This advanced capability allows users to track deposition trends, making it easy to track and compare data from up to four QCMs running in parallel. The trend view offers clear visualization, with deposition lines rising in unison, ensuring accurate, parallel measurements and enabling efficient analysis of well-to-well variability.

expoCube in vitro Exposure

The expoCube provides a novel ALI (air liquid interface) culture exposure system, integrating with the inExpose system’s existing exposure generators such as the integrated cigarette smoking robot and industry leading e-cigarette extensions.

The expoCube features:

Reproducibility: Efficient, uniform, and precise exposure of particulates onto target cells and tissues.
Precision: Optimized flow paths using advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling.
Deposition: Patented thermophoresis, increasing the deposition efficiency of small particles without imparting unnatural electrostatic charges onto the aerosols.

Upcoming expoCube Webinar

SCIREQ & 3RsC are hosting a virtual webinar on Maximizing Drug Development Efficiency Using Predictive in vitro and ex vivo Models on October 29th at 10-11 am EST via ZOOM.

Join us for an insightful webinar where we’ll explore innovative strategies for enhancing drug development efficiency using predictive in vitro and ex vivo models. This session will take a deep dive into the latest methodologies that bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical applications, accelerating the drug development process.