Flow Cytometry Translational Technology Platform

Flow cytometry is a powerful tool that uses lasers to rapidly quantify the fluorescent and light scattering properties of single cells or particles in suspension. Cell components can be labelled with fluorescent dyes to allow different populations to be delineated from the bulk population. Dyes can be used to label and quantify DNA, epitope expression and also for functional assays including oxidative metabolism, apoptosis/viability, calcium flux and proliferation.

The Flow Cytometry Translational Technology Platform at the UCL Cancer Institute is equipped with the latest cutting-edge instrumentation with a BD Symphony A5 capable of measuring up to 28 fluorescent parameters including access to the latest fluorescent dye technology and a CyTOF XT Mass cytometer capable of measuring >50 parameters simultaneously per cell. The facility also has three 4-laser Fortessa analysers and three cell sorters, one of which is housed in a Class II Biosafety cabinet. Services provided by the facility include Cell Sorting, Mass cytometry and analyser training from beginner to advanced levels including high-dimensional data analysis.

The TTP is supported by two specialists and the facility manager with many years of cumulative experience. We provide expertise in experimental design for both sorting and analysis as well as technical assistance.

Analysers

BD Fortessa X20

We have two Fortessa X20 analysers in the TTP. Both instruments are equipped with 4 lasers (Violet, Blue, Yellow-Green and Red) capable of measuring 16 parameters, providing a robust and flexible system for researchers in the CI. Full instrument training is provided to researchers by members of the TTP.

BD LSR Fortessa C

The LSR Fortessa C is a 4 laser, 16-parameter instrument equipped with Violet, Blue, Yellow-Green and Red lasers, similar to the Fortessa X20 analysers in the lab.

BD FACSymphony

The Symphony is an advanced analyser equipped with 5 high-powered lasers including a 60mW UV laser and upgraded detector arrays capable of detecting up to 30 parameters simultaneously.

Helios – Mass Cytometer

The latest CyToF instrument from Fluidigm that is capable of measuring greater than 40 parameters simultaneously.  The instrument combines aspects of traditional flow and mass spectrometry measuring mass instead of fluorescence.

Miltenyi GentleMACS Octo Dissociator

This system is a benchtop instrument for semi-automated and standardised tissue dissociation or homogenisation of up to eight samples. Single-cell suspensions or thorough homogenates from virtually any tissues are easily and reproducibly obtained using the unique C Tubes or M Tubes. These single-use gentleMACS tubes allow sample preparation in a closed and sterile system, providing a high level of user safety and minimise cross-contamination.

NovoCyte Quanteon

The latest 4 laser (Violet, Blue, Yellow-Green and Red) laser flow cytometer from Agilent, capable of measuring up to 25 parameters simultaneously. The Quanteon detectors are capable of measuring signals over a 7.2 log dynamic range, eliminating the need for voltage optimisation. The instrument can hold a 40-tube rack as well as 24, 48 or 96-well plates for high-throughput analysis of samples. Data analysis can be performed during sample acquisition such that all statistical tables and plots can be generated before the end of the run. Automated cleaning and shutdown also allow for users to walk away from the instrument during acquisition.

CyTOF XT

The latest mass cytometer from Fluidigm capable of measuring over 50 parameters simultaneously. The instrument combines mass spectrometry with flow cytometry, measuring the time of flight of heavy metals to distinguish markers rather than fluorophores. The XT also contains a 13-sample, refrigerated carousel and autosampler, allowing users to run multiple samples in an automated manner.

Sorters

BD FACS Aria Fusion

Aria Fusion is a 5 laser sorter capable of measuring 20 parameters including FSC and SSC, and can sort up to 4 distinct populations simultaneously, with different cell collection devices including tubes, slides, and 6/96/384 well plates. Thermal control is installed on the sorter to maintain sample at user-defined temperatures. The instrument is housed in a class 2 biosafety cabinet and is operated by members of the TTP.

BD Aria III

Aria III-A is a 3-laser (Violet, Blue and Red) sorter capable of measuring 16 parameters.

Aria III-B is a 4-laser (Violet, Blue, Yellow-Green and Red) sorter capable of measuring 18 parameters.

Both sorters are able to sort up to 4 different populations simultaneously, with different cell collection devices including tubes, slides, and 6/96/384 well plates. Thermal control is installed on the sorter to maintain sample at user-defined temperatures. The instrument is housed in a class 2 biosafety cabinet and is operated by members of the TTP.

MACSQuant Tyto

The Tyto cell sorter is a 3 laser (Violet, Blue and Red) benchtop sorter capable of measuring up to 8 parameters. It is user-operated and ensures full sterility through the use of fully closed MACSQuant Tyto cartridges, eliminating risk of contamination and aerosol generation. Setup is easy and does not require drop delay or laser alignment. The sorter is also gentle to cells due to the low pressure at which the cartridge operates.

Services

Resources

Guides

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Spectral Viewers

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Team Members

Room 303
Paul O'Gorman Building
72 Huntley Street
London, WC1E 6DD