Utilization of microparticles in next-generation assays for microflow cytometers.
Micron-sized particles have primarily been used in microfabricated flow cytometers for calibration purposes and proof-of-concept experiments. With increasing frequency, microparticles are serving as a platform for assays measured in these small analytical devices. Light scattering has been used to measure the agglomeration of antibody-coated particles in the presence of an antigen. Impedance detection is another technology being integrated into microflow cytometers for microparticle-based assays. Fluorescence is the most popular detection method in flow cytometry, enabling highly sensitive multiplexed assays. Finally, magnetic particles have also been used to measure antigen levels using a magnetophoretic micro-device. We review the progress of microparticle-based assays in microflow cytometry in terms of the advantages and limitations of each approach.
Kim
Jason S
JS
Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Ave SW, Washington, DC 20375-5348, USA.
Ligler
Frances S
FS
D015374:Biosensing Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D002138:Calibration; D004867:Equipment Design; D005434:Flow Cytometry / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008027:Light; D008280:Magnetics; D046210:Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008863:Microspheres; D010316:Particle Size; D012542:Scattering, Radiation