Summary
Cells pass through a laser one at a time and are counted and characterised by fluorescent markers.
In depth
Cells in fluid are hydrodynamically focused; forward scatter indicates size, side scatter granularity; fluorophores identify markers. FACS can sort cells. Used in immunology, haematology and stem cell research.
Gating strategies isolate populations. Compensation corrects spectral overlap. It measures thousands of cells per second.
Remember: it measures single cells but does not give images.
Frequently asked questions
What is Flow Cytometry?
Cells pass through a laser one at a time and are counted and characterised by fluorescent markers.
Which area of biology covers Flow Cytometry, and how advanced is it?
Flow Cytometry is one of the 51 topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include FRET, Bioimage Analysis, Immunofluorescence.
Can you give an example of Flow Cytometry?
Counting CD4 T cells in HIV patients.
What should I learn before Flow Cytometry?
Work through the Beginner topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics first, such as Scientific Method, Hypothesis, Variables, then return to Flow Cytometry. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Flow Cytometry?
The closest topics to Flow Cytometry are FRET, Bioimage Analysis, Immunofluorescence, Mark-Release-Recapture. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Flow Cytometry?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Flow Cytometry. To practise the whole of Lab Methods & Biostatistics, use the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz.
How is Flow Cytometry different from FRET?
Flow Cytometry: Cells pass through a laser one at a time and are counted and characterised by fluorescent markers. FRET: Energy transfer between two fluorophores reports on molecular distances and interactions. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Flow Cytometry step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with FRET and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.