Bio-Rad Helios® Gene Gun System User Manual

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Fig. 17. Loading cartridges into the cartridge holder. The numbers located on the outer rim indicates
sample number when delivered by the Gene Gun.

DNA delivery to target tissue (see Section 6 for suggestions on preparing mammalian
target cells)

1. Touch the target area with the spacer so that the spacer is flush and the Gene Gun is per-

pendicular to the target surface. Activate the safety interlock switch and press the trigger
button to deliver the DNA/microcarriers to the target.

2. Ratchet to the next cartridge by pulling in and releasing the cylinder advance lever. After

approximately 5 sec, the Gene Gun is ready to deliver the next cartridge.

3. After all tubes have been discharged, remove the cartridge holder as described below.

5.4 Removing Used Cartridges, Depressurization, and Shut Down

Materials

Supplied

Cartridge extractor tool

Removing Cartridges from the Cartridge Holder

1. Hold the cartridge holder containing the cartridges to be extracted with the back side (the

side with the knob in the center) facing up.

2. Insert the long prong of the Cartridge Extractor Tool into one of the bores of the cartridge

holder; turn the Cartridge Extractor Tool until all of the prongs mesh with the bores in the
cartridge holder.

3. Push the prongs of the tool into the cartridge holder until the cartridges are ejected.

Depressurizing and Shutting Down the Helios Gene Gun

1. After discharging the last cartridge, turn off the helium pressure to the system by closing

the valve on the helium tank.