Analytical Cytometry / Image Analysis Core Facility

Specific Services

Analytical cytometry is a laser-based technology that permits rapid and precise multiparameter analysis of individual cells and particles from within a heterogeneous population or tissue section. Using the instruments in this facility, information on the physical and fluorescence properties of individual cells or organelles can be obtained, as well as their tissue and subcellular localization.

The Analytical Cytometry/Image Analysis Shared Resource provides investigators with rapid and precise multiparameter analysis of cells, particles, and tissue samples. Laser based cytometry provides a high intensity light source for efficient and broad range illumination of fluorescent probes. The instruments are linked to computer work stations for rapid data analysis. Typically, investigators, their students, and/or technicians work with technical experts in the shared resource to analyze samples and the resultant data, thereby gaining first-hand experience in data acquisition and analysis. The staff also works closely with investigators to design experiments and protocols for optimal utilization of the facility. A variety of different services currently available are listed below. Experimental protocols are available for each of these techniques to guide investigators. New methods are routinely being established and tested.

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Specific services currently include:

1

Immunofluorescence

2

DNA and RNA content

3

Cell-cycle distribution

4

Apoptosis assays

5

Tumor-ploidy determination

6

Cell function measurements (i.e., oxidative metabolism, phagocytosis

7

Cell biochemistry (i.e., intracellular pH, calcium mobilization, membrane potential, microviscosity, glutathione content)

8

Chromosome number and identification

9

Analysis of green-fluorescent protein expression

10

Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH)

11

Fluorescence imaging of individual cells and tissue samples

12

Cell-cell communication and fluorescence redistribution after photolabeling (FRAP)

13

Cell sorting and cloning

14

Fluorescence confocal microscopy

For more information about the Flow Cytometry Core Facility, contact: flowcyt@eohsi.rutgers.edu