Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX flow cytometer 

Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX flow cytometer (CCRL18)

Located in room 3311of Biological Sciences Building of the Statesboro Campus.

The Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX is a compact, benchtop flow cytometer used in research for counting cells and analyzing their properties. The CytoFLEX system is noted for its superior sensitivity, flexible configurations, and user-friendly operation, which allow for a wide range of applications, including the analysis of both cells and nanoparticles.

• You must be logged into a @georgiasouthern.edu or Gmail account to reserve instrument time.  

Samples:

The CytoFLEX can analyze a variety of sample types, including: 

• Cell cultures: Both non-adherent (suspension) and adherent cell lines can be prepared and run on the instrument.

• Blood cells: These include cultured or isolated blood cells, such as those used for immunophenotyping.

• Microorganisms: The instrument is capable of quantitatively and qualitatively measuring bacteria, algae, and yeasts.

• Nanoparticles: Specialized models, like the CytoFLEX nano, offer enhanced capabilities for detecting and characterizing extremely small particles, such as exosomes, microvesicles, and other nanoparticles as small as 40 nm.

The sample input formats include: 

• 5 mL (12 x 75 mm) polystyrene and polypropylene tubes

• 1.5 mL and 2 mL microcentrifuge tubes

• Optional 96-well plate loader for high-throughput applications 

Capabilities:

The CytoFLEX platform offers flexible configurations that can be upgraded as research needs evolve. Key capabilities include: 

• Multi-parameter detection: Depending on the model, the system can be configured with up to six spatially separated lasers and up to 21 parameters for fluorescence detection. This allows for complex, multi-color immunophenotyping assays.

• High sensitivity and resolution: The system utilizes semiconductor-based technology with avalanche photodiodes, which provides exceptional detection capabilities and a large dynamic range. It can resolve dim and bright populations in the same sample and detect nanoparticles with high sensitivity.

• Automated absolute counts: The built-in peristaltic pump provides calibrated, accurate sample volume delivery for absolute cell counts without the need for counting beads.

• High throughput: The optional plate loader module and automation compatibility allow for high-throughput screening applications.

• Violet side scatter (VSSC): The ability to trigger side scatter off the violet laser increases the range of particles that can be detected, including smaller particles like exosomes, because the shorter wavelength scatters more light.

• Flexible filtering: The system includes a full set of repositionable bandpass filters, allowing users to customize detection based on their experiments.

• User-friendly software: The CytExpert software controls instrument operation, data collection, and analysis. The data files can be exported in standard FCS 3.0 format for use with third-party software like FlowJo or Kaluza.

• Compact design: The instrument is a compact benchtop model with integrated optics mounted on a vibration-isolated table, ensuring stability and alignment.