How to choose the right Collagenase cell isolation enzyme by Sara Liebowitz

Keep these things in mind when you are choosing a cell isolation enzyme:

1. There are a number of manufacturers and distributors that supply collagenase cell isolation enzymes but the enzymes that each enzyme manufacturer produces for the same cell isolation application are not the same, they do not have the same name, and in most cases they are supplied in different units and activity levels. 

2. Some collagenase cell isolation enzymes include a collagenase and neutral protease combined while some collagenase cell isolation enzymes require you to purchase a collagenase and neutral protease separately. There is also a clostripain enzyme which is sold separately to help "fine tune" an isolation.

3. Enzymes are also produced in batches so each batch may not isolate as many viable cells as the last batch. The batches are categorized as lots. You can obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for each lot to determine the activity level of the enzyme.

4. Most manufacturers and distributors list on their website the type of Collagenase they supply based on your application. Keep in mind whether your application is research or clinical based. All enzyme manufacturers produce both research and clinical grade enzymes for each application and they will provide you with a protocol.

To offset the enzyme cost differential, most researchers and physicians try a research grade enzyme first and then move up to a clinical grade enzyme.

Clinical grade enzymes are available in Animal free cGMP or cGMP grades. Animal-free clinical enzymes are produced to eliminate the potential of animal derived pathogens. cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) enzymes are produced in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices guidelines.

5. Lastly, look for an enzyme that is easy to use, stable and consistent. 

http://www.creschem.com/collagenase--neutral-protease-and-clostripain-for-tissue-dissociation-and-cell-isolation-h-b-content.aspx