Cell Manipulation Question

[RGeels11]

Hi, I am a recent physics graduate and have become very interested in the world of cell biology, mostly the manipulation of cells. I have very little knowledge of biological techniques but I was wondering if anyone could tell me:

What are the best methods for manipulating single cells or small groups of cells? Pipettes/capillaries/needles? I am not thinking of complex methods like optical tweezers, but of simple mechanical/manual methods and what tools might be used.

Thanks.

[aftabac]

Hi
I appreciate that you want to study biology being a physist. well in order to start the work with biology you must first study biology a bit. if you will start randomly then you will gain nothing, as it is pretty different from physics, so first try to develop an idea about the cells and then you can do anything with cell.
and best of luck for ur work



best regards
aftab ahmad

[PeterScherp]

Hi,

the best way to mechanically manipulate single cells is using micropipettes in combination with a micromanipulator. Glass pipettes can be pulled using a micropipette puller (from Sutter). Micromanipulators (Narishige) are then used to hold the pipettes and move them in X,Y and Z directions.
This is very basic and I am more than happy to give you further info when you have specific questions!
Hope that helped!