title: Plug flow cytometry: An automated coupling device for rapid sequential flow cytometric sample analysis.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The tools for high throughput flow cytometry have been limited in part because of the requirement that the samples must flow under pressure. We describe a simple system for sampling repetitively from an open vessel.
  
  
  METHODS
  Under computer control, the sample is loaded into a sample loop in a reciprocating eight-way valve by the action of a syringe. When the valve position is switched, the plug of sample in the sample loop is transported to the flow cytometer by a pressure-driven fluid line. By coupling the plug-forming capability to a second multi-port valve, samples can be delivered sequentially from separate vessels.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The valve is able to deliver samples at rates ranging up to about 9 samples per minute. Each plug of sample has uniform delivery characteristics with a reproducible coefficient of variation (CV). Even at the highest sampling rate, carryover between samples is limited.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Plug-flow flow cytometry has the potential to automate the delivery of small samples from unpressurized sources at rates compatible with many screening and assay applications.
authors.affiliation: Cancer Research and Treatment Center, Departments of Cytometry and Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA.
authors.forename: B S
authors.initials: BS
authors.lastname: Edwards
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Kuckuck
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Sklar
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001331:Automation; D016466:CHO Cells / Q000378:metabolism; D006224:Cricetinae; D005434:Flow Cytometry / Q000379:methods*; D049452:Green Fluorescent Proteins; D008164:Luminescent Proteins / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D008164:Luminescent Proteins; D049452:Green Fluorescent Proteins