Properties and applications of a new type of iodinated gradient medium.

This paper reports on the properties of a new iodinated density-gradient medium, Iotrolan, and its potential application for separating dense cells. Iotrolan is a dimeric, nonionic, iodinated compound which is distinguished by its ability to form dense, non-viscous gradients of low osmolarity. Isotonic gradients of up to 1.30 g/ml can be formed, allowing even dense cells such as sperm to be separated under isotonic conditions.