The Flow Cytometry Shared Resource provides researchers with ready access to the necessary expertise and state-of-the-art instrumentation they need to explore a wide range of research problems with flow cytometry.

We focus on addressing the needs of seasoned flow cytometry users as well as those just discovering the capabilities of flow cytometry technology. The FCSR critically enables studies at the single-cell level, and recent institutional investments in a new cell sorter/analyzer have broadened the range of cytometry applications, particularly in immuno-oncology. We provide monthly training for the instruments for new users. Our directors are also available to consult on experimental design and data analysis.

Focus Areas

Typical experiments handled by the Flow Cytometry Shared Resource facility are designed to analyze or to sort based on up to 18 fluorescent plus 6 light scatter parameters. Some representative examples of analysis experiments include the:

• Measurement of DNA content for cell cycle analysis
• Cell cycle-specific nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins
• Apoptosis markers
• Substituted deoxyuridine incorporation
• Stem cell side populations
• Reactive oxygen species
• Cell surface markers using labeled antibodies or substrates
• Cell viability
• Intracellular ion concentration or pH
• Membrane potential

Cell lysates can also be analyzed with bead substrate-based immunoassays. Some representative examples of sorting experiments include:

• Purification of cells transfected with fluorescent protein-tagged DNA inserts
• Isolation of cell populations expressing specific intracellular or membrane metabolic products