Abstract: The present application is directed to methods of improving cell culture vessel assays. In one aspect the application is directed to a method of reducing the curvature of the meniscus comprising applying a coating material to the interior wall of the vessel, wherein the coating material provides a receding contact angle of about 90 degrees with aqueous solutions and culture media. In another aspect, the application is directed to a method of labeling cells in a first solution by generating droplets of a second solution containing at least one cell-labelling agent and allowing the droplets of the second solution to contact the surface of the first solution.

Abstract: The present application is directed to methods of improving cell culture vessel assays. In one aspect the application is directed to a method of reducing the curvature of the meniscus comprising applying a coating material to the interior wall of the vessel, wherein the coating material provides a receding contact angle of about 90 degrees with aqueous solutions and culture media. In another aspect, the application is directed to a method of labeling cells in a first solution by generating droplets of a second solution containing at least one cell-labelling agent and allowing the droplets of the second solution to contact the surface of the first solution.

Abstract: Improved colony forming cell (CFC) assays are described. The improved assay comprises modifications to the standard CFC assay that enable analysis of temporal, real-time changes in antigen expression during colony development without need to fixate or destroy the culture. The improved assay is applicable to hematopoietic CFC assays as well as to CFC assays for other cells, such as neural cells and mammary cells. In one embodiment, the invention comprises adding a detection reagent, most likely a fluorescently labeled antibody, that is specific for antigens (most likely a cell-surface antigen) expressed on progenitors or on specific mature cell types to a culture at the start or during culture. The invention also comprises modifications to the culture medium and cell preparations used in standard CFC assays to selectively promote the development of one colony type while preventing or suppressing the development of other colony types.