Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS)
A flow cytometer can make multiple measurements on individual cells and to do that on thousands of cells per second, which can reveal the heterogeneity in cell populations hidden by other techniques.
On flow cytometers with the 'sorting' capability, it is possible to go beyond analysis of the sample and physically separate out particular cell populations for further analysis by other techniques, or for cell culture.
With our high-end instrumentation we can:
- Collect up to 6 sub-populations simultaneously
- Analyse up to 18 distinct fluorescent markers in a single sample
- Sort bulk or single cells into various size tubes, eppendorfs, culture plates or slides maintained at a specified temperature (e.g. 4°C).
- Separation of live or fixed samples that can be used in several downstream applications such as reculture, immunophenotyping, cell cycle analysis, Western blots, CRISPR screening, SMART-seq etc
- Sort samples under Level 1 containment
- In addition, aerosol management is installed for operator and user safety
Instruments available:
- BD FACSAria II cell sorter (5 lasers, can detect up to 18 colours at once and sort 4 different populations including single cells)
- BD FACSAria III cell sorter (4 lasers, 15 colours)
Standard configurations of the instruments can be sent upon request.
The sorter is operated solely by the Facility Team. All users users should submit a cell sorting request form and sent to cytometry@mrc-tox.cam.ac.uk which can be found on the Unit Intranet. External users should contact us to discuss their requirements before submitting a cell sorting request.
We welcome enquires regarding possible uses.