The technology is an indispensable analytical tool for cell biology, immunology, and translational research efforts. Researchers need to accurately analyze the many characteristics of biological particles. They also need to rapidly purify target molecules to assess specific immune system functions and characteristics. This is important in cell culture cloning and in transplantation studies using animal models.
Flow cytometry is a laser-based, biophysical technology employed in cell counting sorting, biomarker detection and protein engineering. Flow cytometry is carried out by suspending biological samples in a stream of fluid and passing them by electronic detection apparatus. This allows simultaneous detection of the physical and/or chemical characteristics of up to thousands of particles per second.
Flow cytometry is routinely used in the diagnosis of health disorders, especially blood cancers, but has many other applications in basic research, clinical practice and clinical trials.
Moffitt’s Flow Cytometry Core Facility (FCCF) provides services for members with cancer-related research interests. The facility has six bench-top analyzers, two cell sorters, a bead array analyzer, an automated bead sorter, and a fluorescent microscope.
The FCCF employs the use of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to provide a secure repository for data management, which is accessible by investigators and their laboratory staff.
The FCCF provides critical support for Cancer Center scientific programs by giving researchers access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and the assistance of an exceptionally trained staff committed to contributing to outstanding scientific research efforts to understand the biology of cancer.