Flow Cytometry Capabilities
By Bryan Eppert, PhD, Director, Clinical Laboratory, Medpace
Cytometry is the process of measuring the properties of individual cells. These properties may include gene or protein expression, chemical properties, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) content, and various cellular functions. The earliest methods of cytometry relied upon light microscopy for the classifcation and observation of cells and cellular components. Microscopy permitted direct visual observation of cells for the frst time, leading to the classifcation of cells by morphology and insight into cellular functions. However, the time required for microscopic analysis constrains the number of samples or number of cells in each sample that can be examined. Therefore, the utility of microscopy for analysis of rare cells or in situations where sample throughput is a priority is limited. Flow cytometry was developed largely to improve upon these limitations.
Get unlimited access to:
Enter your credentials below to log in. Not yet a member of Clinical Leader? Subscribe today.