Medycyna Wet. 62 (9), 998-1001, 2006
Lisiecka U., Kostro K., Jarosz Ł. |
Flow cytometry as a novel method for diagnosis and prognosis of diseases |
The article presents basic principles of flow cytometry (FCM), which is a highly advanced technology based on measuring physical and chemical parameters such as: light scatter at different angles and fluorescence. The essential principle of flow cytometry is identifying cell surfaces and intracellular antigens using specific monoclonal antibodies conjugated with fluorochromes. Cells labeled with fluorochromes pass through the flow chamber and, when exposed to the laser beam, they emit and scatter light, causing alterations in the intensity of the light. Light scatter and fluorescence is measured at the same moment. Light signals are converted into digital signals by a photomultiplier system and analyzed by computer. Flow cytometer and computer software provide multiparameter qualitative and quantitative analysis of single cells in a quick, precise and repeatable manner. |
Keywords: flow cytometry, disease diagnosis |