Flow cytometry is now commonly used in both research and clinical laboratories to identify and quantify particles, usually cells, based on their physical or molecular characteristics and/or expression of specific proteins.

Assays that can be performed by flow cytometry include measurement of calcium flux, apoptosis, changes in protein expression in the cell membrane or cytoplasm and assessment of DNA quantity and integrity for determining cell cycle distribution. Flow cytometry also provides a means of detecting viruses, bacteria and plankton in water samples.

The Flow Cytometers in the Flinders University facility are equipped to:

• Identify and characterise a wide range of cell types
• Sort and purify cell fractions
• Assess cell functions
• Measure mitochondrial membrane potential
• Analyse DNA
• Measure cell death (apoptotic and necrotic)
• Analyse small particles, e.g. exosomes and micro-plastics.

The fee-for-service facility is based at Flinders Medical Centre (FMC). We offer training, access to instruments and advice on panel or experimental design to staff and students from within Flinders University, other universities, institutes or external businesses.