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Flow Cytometry

Flow Cytometry

The UConn Health Flow Cytometry Facility provides flow cytometric analysis and cell sorting services to all UConn researchers as well as researchers at neighboring institutions. The facility provides researchers with the ability to perform both multi-parameter analysis and sorting of cell populations into phenotypic, biochemical, and molecular subsets, based on a variety of characteristics including size and shape and fluorescence derived from antibody-tagging or expression of fluorescent molecules. Computer workstations are available for data analysis.

Visit Facility Homepage

Contacts

General Contact

860.679.3463

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Evan Ellison, Ph.D.

Director
jellison@uchc.edu
860.679.6595
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Li Zhu

Research Assistant
lzhu@uchc.edu
860.679.3463

Instrumentation

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Becton-Dickinson LSR II

There are three LSR II analyzers. Two (LSR II-A and LSR II-C) have four lasers and one (LSR II-B) has five. In their current configuration these analyzers are able to detect 15 to 18 parameters (13 to 15 colors plus forward and side scatter). LSR II-B and LSR II-C are considered special order research products (SORP) and are customized for ongoing research at UConn Health.

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Becton-Dickinson FacsAria II

These high-speed cell sorters each have five lasers.  Aria II-A can detect up to 15 parameters (13 colors plus forward and side scatter). Aria II-B can detect up to 18 parameters (16 colors plus forward and side scatter). Both Aria II cell sorters are equipped with an aerosol containment unit to allow sorting of biohazardous materials. Additionally, both Aria II cell sorters are equipped with an automated cell deposition unit (ACDU) that allows for sorting into plates or glass slides. The Aria II sorters are considered special order research products (SORP) and are customized for ongoing research at UConn Health.

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ZE5

The ZE5 Cell Analyzer has 5 lasers and allows for 27 fluorescence parameter flow cytometry analysis. It integrates a universal plate loader that accepts single tubes, tube racks, or 96- and 384-well plates. It has integrated sample vortexing, sample temperature control, and volumetric cell counting. Forward scatter can be detected from both the 488nm and 405nm lasers which may allow for better detection of small particles.

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Computer Workstations

Computer workstations are available for data analysis. Flow cytometry and cytometric bead array analysis software include: FlowJo (Treestar Inc.), BD FACS DIVA (BD Bioscience), Cell Quest Pro (BD Bioscience), ModFit LT (Verity), and FCAP Array (BD Bioscience).

Medicalexpo

Accuri C6

The system is equipped with a blue and red laser, two light scatter detectors, and four fluorescence detectors with optical filters optimized for the detection of FITC, PE, PerCP, and APC. A compact optical design, fixed alignment, and preoptimized detector settings make the system easier to use. Data is digitally collected over a wide dynamic range of  7.2 decades (16 million channels of digital data), making  all data available to users as needed. Gating strategies and  fluorescence compensation values can be set before, during, or after data collection. After data is collected, the  BD Accuri™ C6 software Zoom function allows visualization of data at any scale, so that users can precisely set gates and regions.

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Amnis ImagestreamX MKII

The revolutionary ImageStream®X Mark II Imaging Flow Cytometer combines the speed, sensitivity, and phenotyping abilities of flow cytometry with the detailed imagery and functional insights of microscopy. This unique combination enables a broad range of applications that would be impossible using either technique alone.
This instrument produces multiple high-resolution images of every cell directly in flow, including brightfield and darkfield (SSC), and up to 10 fluorescent markers with sensitivity exceeding conventional flow cytometers. Compared to its predecessor, the new ImageStream®X Mark II Imaging Flow Cytometer offers a streamlined workflow, greater flexibility, and optimizations for rare cell applications.
Taken together, the capabilities of the ImageStream®X Mark II system make it superior for traditional flow applications while transforming the scope of flow cytometry. Applications include the study of cell-cell interactions, phagocytosis, apoptosis and autophagy, the characterization of circulating tumor cells, and many others.

List of Equipment

  • BD LSRII flow cytometry cell analyzer (x3)
  • BD FACS ARIA flow cytometry cell sorter (x2)
  • BD Accuri C6 flow cytometry cell analyzer
  • Amnis Imagestream X Mark II imaging flow cytometer
  • Bio-Rad ZE5 flow cytometry cell analyzer
  • Sorvall tube and plate centrifuge
  • Eppendorf 1.5mL tube centrifuge
  • FlowJo flow cytometry analysis software workstations
  • BD FACS DIVA flow cytometry analysis software workstation
  • Miltenyi Auto-MACS magnetic cell separator
  • Miltenyi Octo MACS magnetic cell separation magnet
  • Miltenyi Midi MACS magnetic cell separation magnets (x3)
  • Miltenyi Vario MACS magnetic cell separation magnet

Coming soon:

  • BD FACS Symphony A5 Spectral flow cytometry cell analyzer (x2)
  • BD FACS Symphony S6 Spectral flow cytometry cell sorter

Campus Address

E Building, Room E6014
UConn Health Center

Mailing Address

263 Farmington Ave
Farmington, CT 06030