Monitoring Neurite Outgrowth in PC-12 Cells with zenCELL owl and High-Quality Serum

Neurite outgrowth studies using PC-12 cells are a vital part of neurobiological research, drug discovery, and neurotoxicity screening. However, real-time observation of neuronal development remains challenging due to the sensitivity of cells and the need for controlled environments.

That’s where our zenCELL owl live-cell imaging system makes a big difference.

The zenCELL owl: Smarter Imaging Inside the Incubator

The zenCELL owl is a compact, 24-camera imaging platform that fits directly into any standard CO₂ incubator. It enables:

• Non-invasive time-lapse imaging of up to 24 wells simultaneously
• Continuous monitoring without removing cultures from the incubator
• Full automation with intuitive software for neurite analysis
• No temperature or gas fluctuation due to flat USB-C data cable

🔗 Learn more about zenCELL owl

For PC-12 cultures, which are highly sensitive to environmental stress, this results in more reliable differentiation tracking and improved reproducibility.

Culture Conditions Matter: The Role of Serum

While imaging is key, neurobiological outcomes are highly dependent on medium quality—especially serum. PC-12 cells require stable and growth-promoting conditions to initiate neurite extension.

That’s why we at Seamless Bio provide researchers with:

✅ Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS)
✅ Heat-inactivated & gamma-irradiated options
✅ Lot-consistent, EU-origin material
✅ Test samples available before full-scale use

Our serum supports cell health, differentiation, and reproducibility, all while being stored in Germany and shipped quickly across Europe.

🔗 Explore serum options at Seamless Bio

Combining Precision Imaging with Optimized Media

By pairing the zenCELL owl with high-quality FBS or human serum from Seamless Bio, researchers can:

• Track neuronal development in real time
• Improve data reliability and reduce batch-to-batch effects
• Save time with automated analysis and incubation-safe imaging
• Reduce serum-related variability by selecting pre-tested lots

This all-in-one approach leads to smarter workflows, better insights, and accelerated results in neurobiology and diagnostics.

Ready to Optimize Your Cell Culture Monitoring?