Narishige CI-2 Micropipette Adapter

Overview

The Narishige CI-2 Micropipette Adapter is an engineered interface component designed to establish a secure, leak-tight mechanical and fluidic connection between precision micropipettes and glass capillary microinjection needles—specifically those with an outer diameter of Ø1.0 mm. It operates on the principle of mechanical compression sealing combined with precision-machined interference fit, ensuring minimal dead volume and maximal reproducibility in low-volume liquid handling workflows. Unlike generic adapters, the CI-2 integrates metrologically controlled dimensional tolerances (≤0.01 mm) and multi-material sealing architecture to meet the stringent demands of single-cell manipulation, microinjection, and microfluidic interfacing in regulated life science laboratories. Its design conforms to fundamental requirements of GLP-compliant assay development, where inter-run consistency, carryover prevention, and traceable hardware integrity are non-negotiable.

Key Features

• Precision-machined interface geometry ensures repeatable, wobble-free coupling with micropipettes ranging from 10 µL to 1000 µL capacity—compatible with leading brands including Eppendorf, Gilson, Thermo Fisher, and Sartorius.
• Triple-seal configuration comprising dual fluorocarbon (FKM) O-rings and one medical-grade silicone backup ring provides dynamic pressure resistance up to 0.5 MPa, eliminating leakage under transient pressure spikes during aspiration or ejection cycles.
• Construction options include biocompatible polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or electropolished 316L stainless steel—both certified to USP Class VI and validated for repeated autoclaving (121°C, 20 min, saturated steam), enabling reuse in sterile cell culture and preclinical workflows.
• Modular Luer Lock or universal threaded interface allows seamless integration into both manual microinjection rigs and automated liquid handling platforms equipped with standardized actuation modules.
• Human-centered ergonomics: total mass of 5 g, textured anti-slip surface, and balanced center-of-gravity support fatigue-free single-hand operation during extended microinjection sessions (>2 hours).

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CI-2 adapter is validated for use with aqueous buffers, organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, chloroform, DMSO), acidic and basic reagents (pH 1–14), and viscous biological matrices including serum-containing media and glycerol-diluted nucleic acid solutions. It complies with ISO 9001:2015 quality management standards and bears CE marking under Directive 2017/746 (IVDR) for in vitro diagnostic ancillary devices. USP Class VI certification confirms absence of cytotoxic leachables per USP and testing protocols. The adapter supports audit-ready documentation packages required for FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned environments when deployed in GMP-aligned cell therapy manufacturing or clinical trial sample processing.

Software & Data Management

While the CI-2 is a passive mechanical interface, its dimensional stability and batch-traceable manufacturing enable full integration into digital lab infrastructure. Each unit carries a laser-etched alphanumeric serial code linked to QC test records—including torque validation, leak testing at 0.5 MPa, and material lot traceability. When used with Narishige IM-300 or MN-400 microinjectors equipped with digital controllers, the CI-2 contributes to end-to-end procedural logging: injection volume, dwell time, and pressure ramp profiles can be timestamped and exported in CSV or HDF5 format for ALCOA+ compliant data archiving. Optional firmware updates for compatible controllers support automated calibration flagging upon adapter replacement, reinforcing instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) frameworks.

Applications

• Molecular biology: High-fidelity PCR master mix dispensing, restriction enzyme addition, and RNAse-free cDNA synthesis setup where carryover avoidance is critical.
• Cell culture & transfection: Precise delivery of CRISPR ribonucleoprotein complexes into primary neurons or iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes using glass micropipettes.
• Drug discovery: Interfacing compound libraries with microfluidic organ-on-chip devices requiring sub-microliter dosing accuracy and solvent compatibility.
• Developmental biology: Embryo microinjection in zebrafish, mouse, and C. elegans models—validated for sustained performance across >500 injection cycles without seal degradation.
• Diagnostics: Sample transfer in point-of-care nucleic acid extraction workflows meeting CLIA-waived operational thresholds for contamination control.

FAQ

Is the CI-2 adapter compatible with non-Narishige micromanipulators?
Yes—the CI-2 adheres to ISO 8536-4 and DIN 13827 standards for Luer interfaces and features interchangeable thread adapters for common manipulator mounting systems (e.g., Leica, Olympus, Zeiss).
Can it be sterilized using ethylene oxide (EtO)?
Yes. Both PEEK and 316L variants are EtO-compatible; however, autoclaving is preferred for rapid turnaround and elimination of residual gas concerns.
What is the maximum recommended operating pressure?
0.5 MPa (72.5 psi) under dynamic conditions; static pressure tolerance exceeds 1.0 MPa per ISO 8536-4 burst testing.
Does the adapter require recalibration after repeated sterilization?
No—dimensional stability is maintained across ≥50 autoclave cycles; periodic visual inspection for seal discoloration or surface pitting is recommended per SOP-ADP-003.
Are replacement seals available as standalone parts?
Yes. FKM/Silicone triple-seal kits (part no. HI01PK03) are supplied in ISO-certified packaging with CoA and shelf-life tracking.