What is Flow Cytometry?
Flow cytometry uses fluorescent probes to identify and characterize cells or particles in suspension (e.g. cells, nuclei or chromosomes) by virtue of size, granularity and fluorescence (auto-fluorescence or fluorescence after immunolabelling or staining). Cells or particles tagged with fluorescent molecules enter the flow cytometer via a fluid stream. The cells then pass by a laser, which emits a specific wavelength of light. The fluorescent probes are excited by the laser and then emit light. The fluorescent signal is detected and amplified, then translated into an electronic signal, which is sent to the computer. The result is a visual presentation describing an individual or group of cellular events. The cells or particles can be separated by sorting, or the information can be collected and analyzed.
The Bio-Rad S3 is located in Higgins 454. Self-use and available 24/7 after training.
The BD FACSCanto™ Flow Cytometer is located in Higgins 454. Self-use and available 24/7 after training.
Advances in cell sorting instrumentation have enabled this technology to be applied to a wider array of cell biology areas, such as hematology, immunology, microbiology, cellular signaling, and parasitology.
Please note that all work performed in BC core facilities and recharge centers should always be appropriately acknowledged. If you are publishing or presenting data acquired in BC core facilities and recharge centers, please include the following statement in the Acknowledgement section of your manuscript/poster/presentation, "The authors would like to thank the Boston College <insert facility name> for assistance with the work presented in this paper/poster/presentation*."
* Delete as appropriate