How the Ussing Chamber System Accelerates Epithelial Research
Understanding how molecules move across epithelial tissues is essential in fields ranging from gastrointestinal disease to drug delivery. Yet, researchers often face a daunting challenge: how to quantify this transport accurately and reproducibly. That’s where the Ussing Chamber System from Physiologic Instruments becomes an invaluable partner in the lab. In this article, we’ll explore how Ussing Chambers work, highlight key applications, and offer practical tips to help both new and experienced researchers make the most of this time-tested technology.
🧩 What Is the Ussing Chamber System?
First developed by Hans Ussing in the 1950s, the Ussing Chamber remains a gold standard tool for assessing ion transport and barrier function across epithelial tissues, especially in the gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and urogenital tracts.
At its core, the system allows scientists to mount live tissue (or cell monolayers grown on permeable supports) between two chambers, simulating the mucosal and serosal environments. By measuring transepithelial electrical parameters such as short-circuit current (Isc) and transepithelial resistance (TER), the Ussing Chamber provides real-time data on transport function and integrity.
🌍 Who Uses It and Why?
Ussing Chambers are widely used in:
- Gastroenterology: To evaluate diseases like IBD, celiac, and IBS
- Pulmonary research: To study CFTR function in cystic fibrosis models
- Pharmaceutical development: To assess permeability of drug compounds
- Toxicology and microbiome studies: To evaluate how toxins or bacteria affect gut barrier
With increasing global interest in the gut-brain axis, barrier dysfunction, and personalized medicine, the Ussing Chamber has become more relevant than ever.
⚙️ Key Features That Make the Difference
Physiologic Instruments has modernized the Ussing Chamber system while preserving the scientific rigor researchers trust. Here’s what sets our system apart:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Modular design | Compatible with various tissue types and insert sizes |
| High-precision voltage/current clamps | Reliable and accurate electrical measurements |
| Gas-lifted circulation | Ensures oxygenation and nutrient balance |
| Real-time data acquisition software | Easy integration into digital workflows |
Our systems are customizable — from manual setups for budget-conscious labs to automated multi-channel platforms for high-throughput studies.
Real-time, reproducible data
In a world increasingly focused on mechanistic precision and translational outcomes, the Ussing Chamber system delivers what modern science demands.
🚀 Ready to Elevate Your Research?
Whether you're a lab just getting started or a principal investigator optimizing high-throughput workflows, Physiologic Instruments offers turnkey Ussing Chamber Systems with full support, training, and customization options.
🔗 Contact us to learn more or request a quote.
🔬 Better data starts with better tools — and the Ussing Chamber is one you can trust.