Fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS)

Definition

A fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) is a specialized type of flow cytometry that sorts a heterogeneous mixture of cells into distinct populations based on fluorescent labeling. It enables researchers to isolate specific cell types for further analysis or experimentation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FACS uses antibodies tagged with fluorescent dyes to label specific proteins on the surface of cells.
2. The technique can analyze thousands of cells per second, providing high-throughput data acquisition.
3. Cells are sorted by FACS based on their light scattering and fluorescence emission properties.
4. FACS is commonly used in immunology to study and isolate immune cell subsets.
5. Data obtained from FACS can be used for both qualitative and quantitative analysis of cellular characteristics.

Related terms

Flow Cytometry:

A technology that uses laser-based instruments to count, sort, and profile cells in a fluid stream.

Fluorescent Antibody:

An antibody conjugated with a fluorescent dye, used to detect specific antigens.

Cell Sorting: The process of separating cells into different groups based on specific criteria such as size, shape, or markers.