A diffusion-based system is generally focused on measuring transepithelial fluid transport and is

used to follow net movement of H2O or solute across the

membrane. By itself, diffusion-based systems do not provide specific information regarding the
underlying transport mechanism and are best suited
towards measurements of leaky epithelia characterized by electroneutral transport.
While fluid transport can result in a volume change in the recording chamber, it is usually
quantitated by measuring a corresponding change in a volume
marker. Volume markers include changes in salt or dye concentration, or changes in physical
characteristics such as fluid capacitance or resistance.
Advantages of fluid transport measurements using a volume marker include good temporal
resolution and sensitivity to small fluxes (volume changes as
low as 1 nl/min have been reported). A disadvantage is the requirement for small volume
chambers.