Protocols

Overview

TraCe-bMPS accelerates development and adoption of human-relevant barrier models, enabling rigorous, reproducible microphysiological systems for drug discovery, toxicology, and regulatory decision-making. Our protocols are developed, validated, and shared openly to support the global MPS community.

Focus

BBB, NVU, retina, gut, lung & other barriers

Core Strength

Modular µSiM nanomembrane platform + validation tooling

Outputs

Protocols, SOPs, datasets, benchmarking & training

Featured Protocols

Our protocols are hosted on protocols.io for version control, DOI assignment, and open access. Below are key protocols for getting started with the µSiM platform.

Assembly · Microfluidics

Assembling µSiM Top Component with Membrane Chip

Step-by-step assembly of the µSiM top component, including membrane chip placement, O-ring seating, and quality checks for a sealed culture chamber.

View protocol →

Apical Flow · Flow Insert

Assembling µSiM Devices with Flow Insert

Assembly procedure for integrating the flow insert into µSiM devices, enabling controlled apical flow for barrier maturation and transport studies.

View protocol →

Cell Culture · Cell Viability

Endothelial Cell Growth and Maintenance in the µSiM with a Flow Insert

Complete workflow for seeding, growing, and maintaining endothelial cell monolayers in µSiM devices equipped with flow inserts, including media schedules and viability assessment.

View protocol →

Seeding Cells · Flow Insert

Seeding Cells in Flow Insert – NPN Version

Optimized cell seeding protocol for NPN (nanoporous silicon nitride) membranes in the flow insert configuration, covering cell density, coating, and attachment verification.

View protocol →

Protocol Categories

The TraCe-bMPS protocol library spans the full workflow from device fabrication to biological assay and data analysis. Protocols are organized into the following categories:

  • Device Assembly — µSiM top component, flow insert, and holder assembly with quality checks
  • Cell Culture — Seeding, maintenance, and passaging protocols for endothelial, astrocyte, pericyte, and immune cell types
  • Barrier Assessment — TEER measurement, permeability assays, and acceptance criteria for barrier integrity
  • Immunocytochemistry — Fixation, staining, and imaging protocols optimized for nanomembrane substrates
  • Microfluidics — Flow system setup, priming, bubble management, and shear stress calibration
  • Quality Control — Membrane QC, batch testing, and contamination protocols

Access & Contribution

All published TraCe-bMPS protocols are freely available on protocols.io with DOIs for citation. TraCe partners can contribute new protocols or suggest revisions through the workspace.

For access to partner-only protocols or to request training materials, please use our collaboration request form.