Optimization of Caco-2 cell growth and differentiation for drug transport assay studies using Millicell 96-well cell culture plates

27 May 2026

This application note demonstrates how to optimize Caco-2 cell culture conditions for reliable drug transport and permeability studies using the Millicell 96-well plates. It outlines protocols for cell growth, seeding density optimization, and monolayer integrity assessment, alongside methods for measuring drug absorption rates. The workflow supports high-throughput screening of candidate compounds and provides reproducible in vitro data to inform drug discovery and ADME evaluation.

Millicell® 24 & 96-well Cell Culture Insert Plates

Merck

Millicell® cell culture insert plates are a patented device designed to support cell growth and differentiation of endothelial and epithelial cell lines, including CaCo-2. The Millicell® device is available with a 0.4 µm PCF and a variety of PET membrane pore sizes. The plate is designed for maximum user convenience and incorporates features such as apical assist for easier pipetting and basolateral access.

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Drug DeliveryDrug Delivery refers to dosage form, route of administration, formulations, technologies, and systems for transporting a pharmaceutical compound in the body as needed to safely achieve its desired therapeutic effect. Drug delivery is often approached via the biopharmaceutical or small molecule drug's formulation, but it may also involve medical devices or drug-device combination products. Considerations include instrumentation, software and services. Cell / Tissue CultureCell culture or tissue culture is used to study the biology of cells or tissues and to isolate cellular products in an environment which can be manipulated and well defined. Accurately control your culture environment with bioreactors or culture incubators, bind your cells to a surface or together with an extracellular matrix. Distinguish cell types with differential media or proliferate cells with certain characteristics using selective media. Enrich your media with supplements such as growth factors, sera and vitamins. Find the best cell and tissue culture products, kits and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Cell CultureCell culture involves growing cells under controlled conditions, typically outside of their natural environment, to study cellular behavior, drug response, and disease models. Cell culture is crucial in biotechnology and biomedical research. Explore cell culture products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.ADMEPermeability AssaysFluorescence AnalysisPharmacokinetics