Few and Far Between: Tools and Strategies for Rare-Event Detection Using Flow Cytometry

20 Oct 2015

This application note presents a few major obstacles in rare-cell detection, specific strategies to address them, and examples of successful rare-cell analysis by flow cytometry. It is also demonstrated that acoustic focusing cytometry can dramatically increase sample acquisition rates compared with conventional flow cytometry, enabling a larger number of rare cells to be analyzed in a single experiment.

Invitrogen™ Attune™ NxT Flow Cytometer

Thermo Fisher Scientific

The Invitrogen™ Attune™ NxT flow cytometer can be designed to accommodate the most common fluorophores and fluorescent proteins used in flow cytometry to match the panels you are currently running. Multiple fluorescent proteins can be detected with an optional 561 nm laser. Whether you configure your system now or upgrade later, the Attune NxT flow cytometer can grow with you and your research needs. The Attune NxT flow cytometer, designed using acoustic-assisted hydrodynamic focusing, achieves sample-throughput rates of of 12.5 µL/min–1 mL/min or 12.5–1,000 µL/min—up to 10 times faster than traditional hydrodynamic focusing systems and data acquisition speeds of 35,000 events/sec. Acoustic focusing allows significantly higher sample rates, which simplifies sample preparation, reduces protocol times, and minimizes cell loss. This feature is useful for no wash, no lyse immunophenotyping protocols using whole blood and for samples that are inherently low in concentration, including cerebrospinal fluid and stem cell preparations. Your next result relies on the ability of your experimental design and your instrument to deliver more—more data, more detail, and more throughput. The Attune NxT flow cytometer was designed to meet the demands of more complex experiments, offering reliable data, day after day, in a grow-with-you system.   Features & Benefits: Modular design—Multiple configurations available—field upgradable. Save time—10X faster speeds with no loss in data quality. Simplified sample prep—No wash, no lyse options, non-clogging fluidics. Enables unique applications—Complex protocols on a broad range of cell types and samples.

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Flow Cytometry / Cell CountingFlow cytometers are used to count, sort and examine multiple characteristics of cells. Other cell analysis equipment includes image cytometers, cell counters, fluorescence-activated cell sorters (FACS), magnetic-activated cell sorters (MACS), and a range of flow cytometry assay kits. Flow cytometers can reveal information on cell viability, cell proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle progression, as well as identify cell populations and intracellular or cell-surface molecules. Additionally, some flow cytometers, known as FACS, have an additional sorting function after analysis. Cell counters and image cytometers count live and dead cell populations and can also conduct cell proliferation assays. Find the best flow cytometers, cell counters and cell sorters in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.HematologyIn Haematology / Hematology, complete blood cell counts (or full blood counts) are obtained using automated blood count analyzers to enumerate blood cell types.  Hematology also encompasses haemostasis and coagulation, thrombophilia and hemophilia, plasma viscosity and ESR analysis, hemoglobinopathies, cell morphology and haematinic measurement.ImmunologyImmunological techniques measure and characterize immune responses. Immunology kits and analysis systems often use techniques such as ELISA, radioimmunoassay (RIA) and immunodiffusion assays, Immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Immunologists use equipment such as flow Cytometers, plate readers, plate washers and fluorescent microscopes.Cell-Based AssaysCell-based assays are used to monitor the presence, quantity and activities of a desired cellular analyte including drug molecules or biomarkers. This can reveal information on cell health (apoptosis, cytotoxicity, viability and proliferation assays), cell metabolism, cell migration and cell signaling mechanisms. Find the best cell-based assay products, kits and equipment with our peer reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receiving pricing direct from manufacturers.CytometryCytometry is a broad term for the quantitative analysis of cells and cell systems. The most popular methods to study cytometry are flow cytometry and image cytometry.Cell AnalysisThe analysis of cells allows researchers to understand the factors which contribute to cell health and function. These influencing processes can then be predicted and altered, leading to the development of medication and disease treatments.Single Cell AnalysisSingle-cell analysis involves studying individual cells to gain insights into their behavior, gene expression, and function. This approach is valuable in cancer research, stem cell biology, and immunology. Explore single-cell analysis products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.CTCsTumorsTumor research focuses on understanding abnormal cell growth that leads to cancer. Identifying biomarkers, studying tumor microenvironments, and developing targeted therapies are critical for advancing cancer treatment. Early detection and personalized treatment options are key to improving outcomes for patients. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to explore tools for tumor research, diagnostics, and cancer therapies; compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.MetastasisCancer ResearchAlthough cancer is often referred to as a single condition, it actually consists of more than 100 different diseases. Microscopy, mass spectrometry, high throughput sequencing and flow cytometry are some of the most common techniques employed in cancer research labs.
Few and Far Between: Tools and Strategies for Rare-Event Detection Using Flow Cytometry