Flow Cytometry Core Laboratories

The Flow Cytometry Core Unit is divided into three sections: basic and clinical research, patient and sample monitoring for the Bone Marrow Transplant group and clinical diagnostics for the Hematology / Oncology Clinic. We currently have five flow cytometers (2 cells sorters and 3 cell analyzers) and three personnel in the core unit and we deal with a variety of different projects for many different labs.

The Cytomation MoFlo is our sorting cytometer. We use it to separate populations of cells from one another by means of fluorescently labeled antibodies and/or DNA dyes. We can enrich populations up to 4 log while maintaining viability and sterility. One Cytomation MoFlo multi-laser cell sorter for research is equipped with three lasers and is capable of analyzing 8 colors and 2 size parameters (relative size and density). It can sort up to four populations at a rate of >25,000 cells/second. We have a similar cell sorter for clinical use within the GMP facility that is equipped with two lasers and can analyze using 7 parameters and sort one or two populations.

The other part of our cytometry core performs cellular analysis. We have three machines used for analyzing cells, detecting up to four colors and two size parameters. There is a three-color Becton Dickinson FACScan within the GMP for patient and sample monitoring, and one in our research core used for both basic research and clinical diagnostics. Our third analyzer is a Becton Dickinson FACSCalibur, which is used for basic and clinical research and is capable of four-color analysis.

The Core provides expert cell analysis and sorting as well as data management and archival, advanced computer modeling of data, sample preparation methodology and a broad supply of knowledge and experience in the field of cytometry. We are constantly working to push the limit of the technology available and help devise new technologies and applications related to flow cytometry.

©2002, Cell And Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine
One Baylor Plaza, N1002, Houston, TX 77030, (713)798-1246
URL: http://www.bcm.edu/genetherapy Email:cagt@bcm.edu
(Modified: September 21st, 2007 - jb)