What are the emerging trends and innovations in flow cytometry cell sorting?

1 Multiparameter sorting

Flow cytometry cell sorting has a major advantage in that it can measure multiple parameters simultaneously, like size, shape, fluorescence, and surface markers. This allows for the identification and isolation of rare or complex cell subsets that would otherwise be difficult to detect. However, as the number of parameters increases, the complexity of the sorting process and data analysis does as well. To address this challenge, new technologies and software tools are being developed to enhance the speed, sensitivity, and resolution of multiparameter sorting. Innovations such as high-throughput sorting systems that can sort up to 10,000 cells per second and manage large sample volumes; multicolor fluorescent proteins and dyes that can extend the range of detectable signals and reduce spectral overlap; and advanced algorithms and machine learning that can optimize sorting criteria and automate data interpretation are being used to improve the process.

2 Single-cell analysis

Flow cytometry cell sorting is becoming increasingly popular as it can be integrated with single-cell analysis techniques to reveal the heterogeneity and functionality of individual cells. Single-cell analysis can provide insights into the gene expression, epigenetic modifications, metabolic activity, and signaling pathways of sorted cells, as well as their interactions with other cells and their environment. This can help to better understand biological processes such as differentiation, development, infection, and disease. Some of the single-cell analysis methods that can be combined with flow cytometry cell sorting are single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), which measures the transcriptome of thousands of cells in parallel; single-cell proteomics that quantify the protein expression and post-translational modifications of sorted cells; and single-cell metabolomics that profile the metabolic status and fluxes of sorted cells using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).

3 Microfluidic sorting

A third innovation in flow cytometry cell sorting is the use of microfluidic devices that can miniaturize and automate the sorting process. These devices offer several advantages over conventional sorting systems, such as reduced sample volume and reagent consumption, enhanced sorting accuracy and purity, and increased flexibility and functionality. Microfluidic sorting can be based on various principles, such as dielectrophoresis, acoustic waves, magnetic fields, or optical forces, depending on the desired sorting criteria and performance. These benefits can save costs and resources, reduce the risk of contamination, improve downstream analysis, enable the sorting of different cell types, sizes, and shapes, and even integrate multiple functions like cell culture or detection.

4 Future perspectives

Flow cytometry cell sorting is a rapidly evolving technique that is constantly being improved and adapted to meet the needs and challenges of biomedical research. In the near future, there are many opportunities to develop new biomarkers and probes for enhanced specificity and sensitivity of cell identification and isolation. Quality control and validation methods can also be implemented to ensure the reliability and reproducibility of the sorting results and data. Additionally, there are efforts to make flow cytometry cell sorting equipment and services more accessible and affordable, which could enable more researchers to use this technique in their laboratories and clinics. As such, flow cytometry cell sorting is a valuable tool that can help explore the diversity and complexity of cell biology while discovering new insights and applications. By staying updated on the emerging trends and innovations in this field, one can enhance laboratory skills and advance research goals.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?