What is the uMc-CLN Automated Pipette Cleaning Controller?

The uMc-CLN series of pressure controllers are engineered by Sensapex to automate the cleaning and reuse of patch clamp pipettes, eliminating the time-consuming process of manually replacing pipettes between recordings. Using a validated combination of Alconox and Tergazyme cleaning solutions — protocols demonstrated in multiple independent peer-reviewed studies — the uMc-CLN enables sequential patching of up to 100 cells with a single pipette, dramatically increasing multi-patch throughput.

The uMc-CLN integrates seamlessly with existing patch clamp setups and with the Sensapex control ecosystem. Available in 2-, 4-, and 8-channel configurations, it supports everything from single-cell re-patching workflows to large-scale connectivity studies where multiple cells must be sequentially patched in high volume.

Key Features

• 1-Click Automated Cleaning: Fully automated pipette cleaning reduces the workflow to a single button press, saving internal solution, pipettes, and above all, experimenter time.
• Proven Cleaning Protocol: Alconox and Tergazyme cleaning has been validated in peer-reviewed publications for reliable and safe pipette reuse — enabling up to 100 cells per pipette without compromising seal quality.
• Multiple Channel Configurations: Available as 2-channel (uMc-CLN2), 4-channel (uMc-CLN4), and 8-channel (uMc-CLN8) units to match the scale of your multi-patch rig.
• Easy Integration: Designed to add to existing patch clamp setups with minimal reconfiguration. All uMc-CLN units are compatible with standard Sensapex micromanipulator rigs.
• Full SDK and Touchscreen Control: All uMc devices integrate into the Sensapex control environment, supporting both the touchscreen interface and SDK-driven automation for advanced, high-throughput pipetting workflows.
• Precision Pressure Control: ±70 kPa output range with 7 Pa resolution and ±140 Pa accuracy ensures reproducible cleaning pulses for consistent pipette conditioning.

System Configurations

The uMc-CLN controllers are designed as modular building blocks for multi-patch setups. They pair directly with the uMc-PRF-VAC pressure pre-regulation and filter unit (with vacuum generation), which converts lab-standard compressed air into the regulated pressure and vacuum needed by the cleaning system. The uMc-SLC slice chamber provides an integrated ring of cleaning wells that the pipette tip is moved into and out of using the Sensapex manipulator.

Applications

• Automated Multi-Patch Clamp: Enables sequential whole-cell patching of multiple neurons without pipette replacement, accelerating connectivity studies and population-level physiology experiments.
• High-Throughput Electrophysiology: Suitable for screening applications where large numbers of cells must be recorded rapidly, particularly in pharmacology and drug discovery pipelines.
• Slice Electrophysiology: Pairs with acute brain slice preparations, where rapid sequential patching of nearby cells reduces tissue degradation time.
• Automated Patch Clamp Research: Fully compatible with robotic patch clamp setups using the Sensapex SDK for closed-loop, fully automated cell-finding, sealing, and cleaning sequences.

Why uMc-CLN for Your Lab?

The uMc-CLN range eliminates one of the most tedious bottlenecks in patch clamp experiments: pipette changeover. Rather than breaking down the bath solution, replacing the pipette, and re-approaching the cell, the uMc-CLN enables researchers to clean in-situ and immediately re-approach. The system’s open architecture and SDK support mean it can be integrated into custom automation frameworks, making it ideal for labs pushing toward fully automated electrophysiology platforms.