An integrated system designed to create in vitro intestinal models. Contains a specially formulated serum-free medium, culture supplements, sodium butyrate, and BD BioCoat Fibrillar Collagen Cell Culture Inserts.

An in vitro system used for rapid differentiation of Caco-2 cells:

• Facilitates confluent enterocyte monolayer formation with barrier function within 72 hours
• Promotes barrier function with TEER > 150 ohms cm² and mannitol permeability coefficient < 4x10^-6 cm/sec
• Permits testing of both actively and passively transported compounds
• Allows for studies two to three days postseeding, 17-18 days earlier than with commonly used procedures
• Serum-free environment maximizes control over experimental conditions
• Saves labor time and media by eliminating three to five feedings

Complete protocol provides:

• Standardized procedures
• Capability for immediate start-up

Applications:

Caco-2 cells can be used as in vitro models of intestinal epithelial cells for the following:

• Examination of transepithelial passage of orally administered drugs to help predict bioavailability of new therapeutic agents in humans
• Studies of intestinal transport mechanisms for various nutrients, metabolites and trace elements, and of compounds that interfere with this process
• Investigation of the mechanisms involved in the entry, replication and expression of infectious agents of the intestinal tract
• Studies of structural and/or functional changes in the intestinal epithelium associated with diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis or drug-induced intestinal inflammation