CORE OVERVIEW

The ICBR Cytometry core provides investigators with access to Cytometry and Optical Microscopy instrumentation and services. We offer project consulting, with experimental design and optimization to help researchers plan both large and small-scale experiments utilizing our cell sorters, analyzers, small particle instruments and microscopes. Training is offered for most of our instruments with an eye towards creating knowledgeable, self-sufficient operators. We coordinate closely with other ICBR cores (Next-Gen Sequencing, Gene Expression, Bioinformatics, Monoclonal Antibody, Electron Microscopy, and Proteomics) on shared projects. Our core offers a large suite of services including staff-assisted instrument operation, cytometry theory and hands-on training courses, data analysis workstations, online analysis software licenses, and 24/7 self-service access to most of our equipment. Our cytometers, small particle instruments and microscopes are distributed between two buildings on the University of Florida’s Health Science Center campus, the Cancer Genetics Research Complex (CGRC) and the McKnight Brain Institute (MBI).

The Cytometry core provides a variety of tools and staff expertise for analyzing and imaging live cells, fixed cells, tissue sections, and small particles (i.e.: like EVs, exosomes, liposomes). The laboratory incorporates numerous flow cytometers, from simple entry-level analyzers to high-end 5-laser, 28-parameter instruments to analyze and sort cells. We have sorters to help users collect cells of interest: BD Symphony S6, BD Fusion, and a Sony SH800. Our collection of analyzing cytometers includes several traditional filter-based systems (Cytoflex LX, Fortessa, Accuri, Canto, Symphony A3) as well as spectral analyzers (Sony ID7000 and Cytek Aurora). For those who are working with small particles, we also have a NanoFCM and a NanoSight NS300.

In addition, the core maintains an assortment of microscopes, in both confocal and widefield formats. The microscopes are well equipped to work with a variety of fluorescent labels from near UV out to long-red. Within in our assortment of imaging capabilities are a number of advanced functions, including FLIM, FRET, FRAP, image stitching, 3D processing, and in-vitro time-lapse imaging. We offer a range of microscope models including our White-Light Laser equipped Leica Stellaris 8 spectral confocal, a Leica SP5 spectral confocal, and two Olympus IX81-DSU spinning disk confocals. Our collection of widefield microscopes includes a Keyence BZ-X800, and a Nikon Ti-E equipped for live-cell imaging.

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