MyoTak is a biocompatible, cellular adhesive designed specifically for use with the SI-CTS100 Cell Tester, a revolutionary new research tool to facilitate mechanical cellular investigation. MyoTak (patented by the University of Maryland) provides a method of securely attaching a single living cell, such as a cardiac myocyte, to research tools without damage to the cell. Cells can be securely mounted to glass rods or microtweezers for mechanical studies. MyoTak is non-cytotoxic.
(Above) A single rat cardiac myocyte is held by MyoTAK coated glass rods on the Cell Tester.

 MyoTak can be used alone or in conjunction with a pre-coating. When mounting cells to smooth surfaces like glass rods, using the pre-coat (which comes with MyoTak) is recommended. It roughens the surface and increases the surface area of the glass mounting rod. This allows the cells to attach more securely to the glass rods. When using the SI-H microtweezers on the SI-CTS100 Cell Tester, no pre-coating is required.

SI-H Cell Tester

The SI-CTS100 Cell Tester can, without any changes, be used for one single living cell, for a small multi-cellular preparation and for single or larger skinned muscle strip preparations. Translational experiments from the single living cells to the intact multi-cellular level can be accomplished. For example, using the Cell Tester, the influence of the connective tissue on muscle function can be distinguished from the clean muscle work for the first time. Conversely, skinning allows a direct comparison between the living cell response and a cell, whereby the subcellular contractile proteins are studied with full experimental access to cell signalling and cellular biochemistry.

The Cell Tester provides researchers with the comprehensive ability to investigate and characterize the physiological, bio-mechanical and bio-physical properties of single isolated living cells and extend these findings to the sub- and multi-cellular level. Cell Tester Data Sheet

Shipping and Storage

MyoTak is sold in packages with five vials of 20μL aliquots each. With daily testing, this supply will last five weeks. MyoTak has an added dye for easier viewing under a microscope. MyoTak MUST be stored in a freezer immediately upon receipt. If the gel is exposed to temperatures above 4ºC, it polymerizes and quickly sets, making it unsuitable for its intended use. Because of these specifications, it has special shipping requirements. Contact WPI Sales team at 866.606.1974 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for any questions or to schedule delivery of your MyoTak. MyoTak Data Sheet