Flow Cytometry

HSC Flow-Cytometry Core Lab Icon

Flow Cytometry Core is a shared resource facility providing advanced instrumentation as well as high-level technical and scientific expertise in multi-dimensional Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting, to enable innovative research, improve the quality, and advance research enterprise in HSC. 

The Core offers training for investigators, consultation of experimental design, data acquisition, data analysis, cell sorting, and data management. The Core is equipped with a cell sorter, two benchtop analyzers and an imaging cytometer for user operated data acquisition. All services are provided through online iLab accounts, and individual users may reserve instruments and acquire training through their individual accounts. 


Contact

Contact us for more details about equipment, services, and scheduling time in the Flow Cytometry Core.

iLab

Log in to iLab to see a full list of equipment and schedule time in the Flow Cytometry Core.

Per Hour Charges Based on User Type 

Internal  NEXT Lab  External
Aurora  Unassisted  $ 35.00
Assisted  $ 70.00  $ 95.00  $ 190.00
BD LSRII  Unassisted  $ 35.00
Assisted  $ 50.00  $ 73.00  $ 146.00
Imagestream Mk II   Unassisted  $ 40.00
Assisted  $ 80.00  $ 117.00  $ 234.00
Sony Sorter   Unassisted  $ 55.00
Assisted  $ 110.00  $ 160.00  $ 320.00
Sorting Chip  $ 100.00  $ 100.00  $ 100.00

Mandatory training by staff is required for all users. After training, users are granted access to run the cell sorter, benchtop analyzers and utilize analysis computers. Please request training through iLab.

Log in to iLab

  • Cell Sorting Guidelines
  • Flow Cytometry Guidelines
  • Staining Protocol
  • Sample Preparation 

Below is a list of pertinent documents for cell sorting when users of the facility desire to sort human cells, or non-human cells intentionally infected with agents whose transmission would pose a significant health risk to humans. Briefly, submission of a risk assessment form along with a working knowledge of HSC Flow Core internal required. 

  • Risk Assessment Form
  • Spills and Exposure Procedures 

Flow Cytometry Core occupies roughly 900 sq.ft. on the first level of the Research & Education Building. Core provides comprehensive instrumentation suite and technical services in support of cell sorting and analysis. The primary instrument is a Cytek Aurora, 4 laser, 48 parameter instrument equipped with plate reader automation for high throughput studies. The four lasers are Violet 405nm, Blue 488nm, Yellow/Green 561nm and Red 640nm. Additional benchtop analyzers are BD LSRII 4 laser (405, 488, 552, and 637 nm) system and a 5 laser Imagestream MkII imaging cytometer that combines the abilities of flow cytometry with the detailed functionality of microscopy. Core also houses a Sony SH800 cell sorter equipped with 3-lasers (Blue 488nm, Red 638nm and Yellow/Green 561nm) allowing the simultaneous analysis of up to 6 colors and concurrent sorting of 2 different cell populations. This unit is enclosed in Baker Biosafety Hood, enabling the sorting of human and biohazardous cells. FlowJo software is provided to users for data analysis. 

  • How can I get access to facility instruments after hours? 

Trained users have 24/7 access to the Flow Core using key card access. 

  • How can I get access to data analysis software? 

FlowJo is provided to users for data analysis. Please contact staff to activate the license. 

  • Where is Flow Cytometry Core? 

Core is located in RES Bldg, Room 124. 

Contributions to scientific output is an important metric for Core Labs, as it enables us to obtain financial and other support to ensure continuous high standards of operations to foster innovative research.

Users are encouraged to acknowledge Flow Cytometry Core in presentations, posters, papers, and all other publications.

For example: “We acknowledge [name of staff] in the HSC Flow Cytometry Core for training and assistance on [following]”.

When to acknowledge or provide co-authorship

  • Include an acknowledgement any time the staff member or the Core provides services that support your research
  • If a staff member has made a significant intellectual contribution beyond routine sample analysis, please consider co-authorship