Identification and Functional Characterization of Natural Killer Cells Using Flow Cytometry

29 Jul 2013

Natural killer (NK) cells are a subset of lymphocytes involved in innate immunity. Their mechanisms of action include the direct lysis of non-self target cells through release of perforin and granzymes, as well as the production of cytokines that are supplied to other innate immune cells. This application note describes the use of a novel flow cytometry kit to characterize NK cells in human peripheral blood and the use of flow cytometry to perform a cell cytotoxicity test to detect NK-mediated killing of human K562 myeloma cells.

FlowCellect™ Human NK Cell Characterization Kit

Merck

The FlowCellect™ Human NK Cell Characterization Kit includes three directly conjugated antibodies, Anti-CD3-APC, Anti-CD56-PE, and Anti-CD16 FITC. This three color kit is designed to characterize NK within mixed cell populations. The antibodies provided have been carefully titrated to ensure the ability to accurately measure the expression of all markers simultaneously. Sufficient reagents are provided to perform 25 three-color tests. Detailed assay instructions are included to assist in analysis and to ensure the correct cell concentration is obtained during acquisition of sample data.

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Guava® easyCyte™

Luminex

Our microcapillary flow cytometry systems are simpler to operate than traditional sheath-fluid based instruments and are far easier to maintain. They utilize small sample volumes, generate minimal waste, and have lower operating costs. As a result, easyCyte™ Flow Cytometers are uniquely amenable to on-demand use in the laboratory environment and have helped many scientists achieve insightful cellular analysis since 1998.

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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.CytotoxicityCytotoxicity assays measure the toxic effects of substances on cells, often used in drug testing and environmental studies. These tests are crucial in determining the safety of chemicals and pharmaceutical compounds. Explore cytotoxicity testing tools in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.LymphocytesBlood AnalysisThe analysis of blood is vital for many areas of life sciences and forensic investigations. Blood samples can be tested for a number of different reasons such as diagnosis, glucose levels, cholesterol and drug testing.
Identification and Functional Characterization of Natural Killer Cells Using Flow Cytometry