Flow Cytometry Shared Resource

FLOW CYTOMETRY SHARED RESOURCE - PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The overall goal of the Flow Cytometry Shared Resource (FCSR) is to provide a broad array of advanced cell analysis and isolation resources for a wide range of cancer-relevant studies carried out by basic and translational scientists in the MECCC. As a central component of its mission, the FCSR provides access to instrumentation and expertise for analytical flow cytometry and fluorescence activated cell sorting. These resources are critical for a large group of MECCC scientists who use these technologies on a regular basis in their studies to explore the biology of cancer and develop new therapeutics. Analytical flow cytometers housed in the FCSR include the most advanced multispectral analyzers currently available (Cytek Aurora), with capabilities for rapid analysis of >25 parameters per cell. A range of cell sorters are also provided, including cuvette type (FACSAria) and jet-in-air type (MoFlow and Astrios) high speed sorters. FCSR has also recently acquired the most cutting edge, newly developed multispectral cell sorter (ThermoFisher Bigfoot), which elevates the speed, accuracy and complexity of cell sorting capabilities to unprecedented levels. In addition to its state-of-the-art core technologies in flow cytometry, the FCSR has also expanded to incorporate several new related and complementary technology platforms for immune monitoring of cancers in human subjects and animal models. These include the recent acquisition of a multi-channel fluorescence slide scanning system (VectraPolaris), and equipment for gene expression profiling at single cell and microscopic tissue levels (NanoString). FCSR provides technical expertise and training to guide MECCC investigators at all levels in the application of basic and advanced flow cytometry and its other supported technologies. Services and training are supported by a full-time staff consisting of three highly experienced research faculty level operations directors who carry out advanced technical procedures, supervise training activities and manage the daily operations. There are also four experienced and highly trained technicians who support equipment operation and maintenance. Ongoing review of new developments in areas relevant to the FCSR by the senior faculty scientific director and faculty advisory group of the facility assures that MECCC investigators have access to the most advanced current and newly emerging technologies for cell analysis and isolation. FCSR also organizes and supports seminars and demonstrations of new technologies to ensure that MECCC investigators are well informed about newly emerging applications of FACS and other related technologies that can enhance their research. The technologies provided by FCSR are essential to the research activities of MECCC investigators and cannot be outsourced or obtained at other sites in any practical or cost-effective way. FCSR serves as a critical component of MECCC Shared Resources and is a major pillar of support for a wide range of cancer-focused basic and interdisciplinary research.