Mechanism of Cell Partitioning; Equilibrium Contact Angle Measurements Predict Relative, Kinetic Partitioning Behaviour

The relationships between cell partition, a dynamic process, and contact angle determinations, which are equilibrium thermodynamic measurements are investigated experimentally in biphasic systems of dextran and poly(ethylene glycol). Non-charge-sensitive partition, charge-sensitive partition and hydrophobic affinity cell partition all show correlations with contact angle measurements. Contact angles appear to provide a quantitative index of the degree of interaction of cells with the liquid-liquid interfaces of phase droplets which determine the kinetic features of partitioning.