Nanoject Auto Injectors
The Drummond Nanoject III Auto Injectors are high performance instruments, which have been specifically designed to perform ultra-delicate nanolitre injection procedures into cells such as oocytes and embryos.
Minimum injection volume 0.6 nanolitres. Universal adaptor available to mount on most micromanipulators for easier use and more accurate results. Micromanipulator and support base options available separately.
Positive displacement technology and precision microcapillaries together with unique features enhance the ease of use, precise delivery of sample and protection of cells.
The automated microprocessor control of Nanoject III delivers volumes from 0.6nL up to 999.9nL, with complete accuracy and precision, even when sample contaminants are present.
Cells are protected by the remote controlled, non-rotating plunger that eliminates vibration, minimising cell rupture.
The narrow tips and delivery volume enable injections into specimens other than Xenopus. Quieter and smoother than former models, the higher torque motor further reduces tip movement. A novel collet configuration holds the microcapillary more securely reducing air infiltration and oil leakage.
Nanoject II
The Nanoject II is widely used for microinjection into model organisms such as Drosophila melanogaster, Mosquito and Zebrafish. It is also used for injection into single cell models such as Xenopus oocytes and cultured primary cells.
The next generation Nanoject III has enhanced capabilities that make it easier to use, plus extend its applications, the range of model organisms that can be studied and allow investigation at multiple developmental stages.
Recording Nanoject II Injector
The Recording Nanoject II has been specifically developed to improve microvolume injection techniques in the study of connectivity and function of specific brain nuclei. When used in conjunction with an extracellular amplifier, the integrated system enables small volumes to be injected into targeted areas.
Compatible with most popular stereotaxic instruments
Supplied with Universal Adapter for easy mounting
Supplements stereotaxic co-ordinates in guiding the placement of microvolume injections
Provides direct displacement of neuronal tracer or excitotoxin from the dispenser
Operating Speed
Nanoject II has two speed options for each operation, allowing the user to fill and inject at half speed and facilitating the use of smaller microcapillaries. Handling of more viscous samples has also been improved, with no need for tedious recalibration if the viscosity changes.
Nanoject III
Injection Volumes
With the Nanoject III, the volume range has been expanded to 0.6nL-999.9nL. It can be used with micropipettes with an internal diameter of down to 2-3μm.
Rate of Injection
With a variable injection rate of between 1nL/second-200nL/second, it enables new applications e.g. dose-sensitivity in drug investigations.
Easier Set Up
The Nanoject III does not use any O-rings to secure the micropipette in place. Instead, a small chuck and silicone receiver have been incorporated. This new feature simplifies attachment of the micropipette once backfilled with oil.
Multiple Injection Cycles
Single cells can be injected multiple times at a set frequency between injections so this no longer needs to be done manually.
Program Storage
Up to 8 programs can be stored so initial set up is no longer required each time the unit is used.
Injection Counter
Injections are counted automatically on the Nanoject III, so you can keep track of how many have been completed.
Programmability
Now the user can set up multiple injection cycle recipes that can be automatically saved and labelled in sequential order.
Program input and execution is enabled by prompted touchscreens located on the control box. Multiple screens are available
to program and save injection cycles; Nanoject II only had fill, empty and inject buttons.
Auto-Homing
The auto-homing feature in the Nanoject III eliminates the need to rehome the unit as required with the Nanoject II. This reduces, if not totally eliminates, jamming of the plunger.
Additional Information
Accessories
The injector head should be mounted on a micromanipulator or stereotaxic unit using the Universal adapter supplied in the kit. The Marzhauser MM33 micromanipulator is a popular, manual model equipped with high precision and stable cross-roller bearings, which work constantly without any noticeable wear even after many years of intensive use.
The MM33 also has a number of ergonomic benefits. The control knobs for all three axes are arranged at the same level so that it can be easily operated without looking. In addition, the operational controls are at the back of the unit, allowing several devices to be easily installed side by side. A support base is available for the MM3 micromanipulator and is also compatible with other brands.
For convenient hands-free operation, an optional foot switch can be used to control the Nanoject II remotely.
Injector Tips
Two lengths of borosilicate glass (N-51-A) capillaries are available for use with Nanoject II –3.5” and 7” and are ready for pulling to the required tolerance. Once the tips are pulled, they must be “backfilled” with oil (or other non- compressible fluid) before attachment to the injector. Silicone or mineral oil is frequently used for this purpose. Backfilling is performed using a 30 gauge x 2” needle and a syringe.
The precise operation of the Nanoject II depends greatly on the use of tips prepared from the specific glass provided. For this reason, it is recommended that only Drummond microcapillaries are used.
Publications
An excellent reference to all procedures involving the Xenopus oocyte is:
