Flow Cytometry Core Lab

Overview

The Core Lab provides instrumentation and technical and professional assistance for performing laser-based analytic flow cytometry, image cytometry and cell sorting, as well as mass cytometry.

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Instrumentation

Cell Analyzers

ImageStreamx MarkII Imaging Flow Cytometer

The Core Analytic Laboratory has one six-channel ImageStream analyzer for technician-assisted data acquisition. The ImageStream combines the speed and sensitivity of flow cytometry with the detailed imagery and structural information of microscopy and is equipped with three lasers that can be adjusted in their power output (200mW 488nm blue, 150mW 642nm red, 120mW 405nm violet) and a low-power 785nm darkfield laser for side scatter. Note that the sample preparation for this instrument differs from the typical one used for flow cytometry.

Helios (a CyTOF system) Mass Cytometer

The Core Analytic Laboratory has one Helios mass cytometer for operator-assisted data acquisition. For mass cytometry, cells are labeled with antibodies conjugated to metal isotopes, introduced as individual cells into the Helios where they are ionized and analyzed by a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. This novel approach overcomes the difficulties associated with fluorescence overlap that limits polychromatic flow cytometry and permits the simultaneous measurement of over 40 parameters on single cells. The core facility has established a reagent bank of metal-conjugated antibodies that is comprised of common reagents of interest to investigators that require high-dimensional single cell phenotypic and functional analysis. For questions about mass cytometry, protocols, or to set up an appointment for analysis, please contact us.

Attune™ NxT Flow Cytometer

The Thermo Fisher Attune™ NxT Acoustic Focusing Cytometer is a compact, high-performance cell analyzer that uses acoustic technology to align cells for precise, high-throughput analysis. Configured with four lasers (405 nm, 488 nm, 561 nm, and 640 nm), it supports detection of up to 14 fluorescent parameters, enabling multiparametric immunophenotyping and functional assays. The integrated autoloader allows automated acquisition from 96- and 384-well plates, increasing throughput and reproducibility for large experiments or screening applications. Its sensitivity, speed, and ease of use make it well suited for both routine and advanced single-cell analysis in diverse research areas. The Core houses two of these instruments.

Sony ID7000 Spectral Flow Cytometer

The Sony ID7000 spectral flow cytometer is a next-generation platform for high-dimensional single-cell analysis using full-spectrum detection. Our system is configured with six lasers—320 nm, 355 nm, 405 nm, 488 nm, 561 nm, and 640 nm— providing extended coverage into the ultraviolet range and enabling the use of an expanded set of fluorochromes. With over 180 detectors and advanced spectral unmixing algorithms, it can resolve 40+ parameters simultaneously with high sensitivity and precision. This configuration offers exceptional flexibility for designing complex panels in immunology, stem cell research, cancer biology, and other cutting-edge biomedical applications.

Cell Sorters

FACSAria™ Fusion cell sorter

The BD FACSAria™ Fusion cell sorter is a high-performance instrument configured with 355 nm, 405 nm, 488 nm, 561 nm, and 640 nm lasers. It offers two- and four-way sorting and supports simultaneous detection of up to 18 fluorescent parameters, enabling isolation of rare cell populations. The sorter is installed within a Class II biosafety cabinet with integrated aerosol management and HEPA filtration, providing enhanced protection and compliance for BSL-2 sample handling.

On-Chip Sort cell sorter

The On-Chip Sort is a microfluidics-based cell sorter that enables gentle, contamination-free sorting without the need for high-pressure fluidics or aerosol generation. Configured with 405 nm, 488 nm, and 640 lasers, it supports multi-parameter detection for common fluorophores while maintaining high viability of even delicate or rare cell types. Its closed-cartridge design provides sterility and ease of use, making it ideal for single-cell genomics, stem cell, and clinical research applications.

Sony SH800 cell sorter

The Sony SH800 cell sorter is a user-friendly, microfluidics-based instrument designed for high-precision sorting with minimal setup time. Configured with 405 nm, 488 nm, 561 nm, and 640 nm lasers, it enables multiparameter analysis and sorting of diverse cell types into tubes or plates with high purity and viability. Housed within a Class II biosafety cabinet, the SH800S provides safe, BSL-2–compliant operation with integrated aerosol management, making it well suited for both basic and translational biomedical research.