The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine

Flow Cytometry Facility

The 1,200-square foot Flow Cytometry Facility is located in the Eckstein Medical Research Building (EMRB). The Facility has one magnetic-based and nine laser-based instruments whose major purpose is the identification and isolation of various cell populations. The laser-based instruments accomplish this by the use of antibodies to which various colors or dyes have been attached and are directed at molecules known to exist on the cell surface. By using several colors attached to different antibodies, one can identify and purify cells that express any given configuration of various molecules.

In addition to identification and isolation of various cell populations using antibodies, flow cytometry can analyze:

Cell proliferation response to drugs or treatments, such as those used in chemotherapy
Cell physiological properties, such as calcium flux and pH
DNA content and integrity
Transfection markers such as GFP and mCherry

Offline data analysis using FlowJo^TM, Cellquest^TM, and ModFIT^TM can be done through the Facility's system of networked computers. Investigators equipped with IBM or Mac-compatible PCs can perform analysis at their laboratories or offices by accessing data through the Facility's dedicated 1.5 terabyte file server.

The Facility provides scientific and technical personnel who are available for consultation in designing experimental protocols. Cell preparation protocols and publication quality output are available upon request.

A secure, web-based reservation system allows investigators to schedule instrument time. The Facility is staffed M-F, 8am to 6pm and is available 24/7 following training.