Services
Flow Cytometry
Flow cytometry (sometimes called 'FACS') is a powerful technology that measures light properties of particles such as cells, microbes or beads to answer research or clinical questions. Fluorescence and light scatter are detected for individual particles in each sample. Innate fluorescent properties of the sample can be measured but flow cytometry experiments often use fluorescent markers or tags that are added to the sample prior to making the measurement on the flow cytometer. These markers can provide information about the material that they label on the particle, for instance, quantity or quality of DNA or levels of a particular protein (detected with a fluorescently tagged monoclonal antibody). Because flow cytometry can tell you multiple fluorescent read outs for each particle in dense and complex multi-particle samples, large quantities of information can be extracted making it valuable for identifying rare events or complex characteristics of sub populations of particles in a mixed sample.
Cell Sorting
Cell sorting or particle sorting takes flow cytometry to a highly controlled level of specificity by allowing the user to firstly identify particles or cells of interest based on their fluorescent properties and then specifically sort them to high purity for further analysis with other techniques (e.g. nano string, in vitro assays). Many flow cytometers (but not all) are spec-ed for cell sorting with a range of capabilities depending on the equipment. A common application for cell sorting is the single cell deposition of cells of interest into wells on a plate for subsequent genomic analysis. Bulk population cell sorting of rare populations to high purities is also valuable (for instance progenitor populations from a mixed sample or rare functional regulators within immunological samples).
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Whether you need hands on help in the lab, to data analysis of flow data or an extra pair of hands on a project, I'm here to help. I love seeing these toys used well and to the best of what they are capable of, as well as supporting smart people to get the most from their experiments.
Training and Seminars
Does your team need help designing experiments, upskilling or an overview of some of latest technologies discovered through flow cytometry?