A research lab machine

Flow Cytometry Core

The Flow Cytometry Core at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, located in Building Cure, provides high-dimensional flow cytometry analysis and sorting services, including automated microfluidic sorting, large-particle analysis and upcoming real-time spectral imaging.

All instruments undergo daily maintenance and rigorous GCLP-like QC procedures, with QC and instrument status tracked via MS Power App. Sorting processes are regularly verified for sterility, and user access is simplified through a barcode-based Power App login that also connects to Microsoft AI agent “CytoCaptain,” which provides real-time experimental support.

The core offers expert support for experimental design, complex panel development, troubleshooting, and professional data analysis using FlowJo, FCS Express and advanced R-based methods. Supporting applications from routine immunophenotyping to high-throughput screening, the core’s flexible workflows accommodate both single samples and high-density plates, enabling detailed characterization of complex and rare cell populations.

Available Instruments

To view usage rates, schedule training and book instruments for self-use, please visit the Flow Cytometry Core’s iLab page.

Conventional Analyzers

  • BD FACSymphony™ A5 (x2)

    The core now houses two of these high-parameter platforms. Each feature 5 lasers (355nm, 405nm, 488nm, 561nm, 635nm) and is configured for 29 fluorescent parameters.

  • Bio-Rad ZE5 Cell Analyzer

    A 5-laser system (355nm, 405nm, 488nm, 561nm, 635nm) supporting 27 fluorescent parameters. It features a universal sample loader for tubes and multiwell plates.

  • Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX

    A 4-laser system (405nm, 488nm, 561nm, 635nm) with a 10-parameter configuration. It includes an automated 96-well plate loader.

  • Muse Cell Analyzer (Upcoming)

    Currently being acquired, this user-friendly benchtop platform provides rapid analysis of cell count, viability, apoptosis and cell cycle using a 488nm laser.

Conventional Sorters

  • BD FACSymphony™ S6

    A high-parameter sorter capable of 6-way sorting and detecting up to 29 parameters. The core operates two units: one in a BSL-3 suite for infectious samples and one in a BSL-2 suite. Both feature Aerosol Management Systems (AMS).

  • Sony MA900

    An automated, microfluidic chip-based sorter with 4 lasers (405nm, 488nm, 561nm, 638nm) supporting 20 parameters. It allows for up to 4-way sorting into tubes or plates.

  • Union Biometrica BioSorter

    A specialized platform for large particles and whole organisms (e.g., organoids, zebrafish, C. elegans). It uses 488nm and 561nm lasers. Size and structural complexity are measured using Time of Flight (TOF) and optical density (Extinction) through interchangeable 500µm and 1000µm Forward Optical Cell Analyzer (FOCA) sensors.

Services

We provide comprehensive services to support both internal and external researchers, including:

  • Technical Service: Flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting for a range of applications, including immunophenotyping and high-throughput screening.
  • Scientific Service: Consultation on experimental design, panel development, and troubleshooting. Our flow core also helps users explore tools like Cytex Full Spectrum Viewer and BD Research Cloud to optimize your conventional and spectral flow experiments.
  • Data analysis service: Flow Core provides robust support for high-parameter data analysis through platforms like FlowJoand FCS Express, along with advanced analysis capabilities in R.
  • Training: Our staff provides user training and support to ensure efficient and confident instrument operation.

Request Services

Scheduling for the instruments can be done after the required instrument training is completed. There is a charge for instrument training. Training is charged at the same hourly rate as regular instrument use. Scheduling is on a first-come, first-served basis. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours prior to scheduled time.

For training scheduling requests, please submit this form:

Request Flow Core Training

To direct a general question to the core, please send an email to [email protected].

For all scientific consultancy and experiment support, please contact the Flow Cytometry Core supervisor, Siva M Ponnan.

Acknowledging Core Contributions

When citing the Flow Cytometry Core, we recommend the following language: "Seattle Children’s Research Institute Flow Cytometry Core Facility, RRID: SCRI_025522." If you need more information for your grant, please contact the Flow Cytometry Core supervisor, Siva M Ponnan.

Location

  • The Flow Cytometry Core is located at Building Cure 6-717, 6-785 and 7-750.
  • The core is open and staffed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. During non-staffed hours, trained users may schedule time to use the instruments.

The Flow Cytometry Core is staffed by:

Address:

Seattle Children's Research Institute
Building Cure, M/S 06-142
1920 Terry Ave. 
Seattle, WA-98101