Particle and Cell Separation

Abstract

Many processors are available for separating particles and/or cells, but few can match the capacity of flow cytometry – in particular the sorting component. Several aspects unique to cell sorting give it such power. First, particles can be separated based on size, complexity, fluorescence, or any combination of these parameters. Second, it is entirely possible to separate particles under sterile conditions, making this technology very advantageous for selecting cells for culture. Third, when this sterile environment is combined with a highly controlled safety system, it is possible to safely sort and separate highly pathogenic organisms or even cells containing such pathogens. The very latest instruments available add even more power by introducing the ability to sort cells based on spectral unmixing. This last option requires incredible computer power and very-high-speed processing, since the sort decision is based on computational algorithms derived from the spectral mixture being analyzed.