Cell sorting and analysis

Flow cytometry allows the analysis and sorting of cells, by labelling target molecules inside the cell and on its surface with fluorescent probes. Lasers inside the flow cytometer excite each probe, or label, which then emits a particular wavelength that is detected as the cells pass through the instrument at high speed. The resulting profile of labelled targets allows researchers to assess the phenotype and biochemical status of living cells.

Dalhousie Medical School’s Flow Cytometry Core Facility encompasses two separate locations. Each is equipped with a state-of-the-art flow cytometer, with slightly different capabilities to meet the diverse analytical needs of Dalhousie’s scientific community and external clients.

Thanks to support from Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation’s Molly Appeal, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and the Nova Scotia Research and Inovation Trust, Dalhousie Medical School operates seven flow cytometers.