Imaging Flow Cytometry (IFC)
Method Introduction
Imaging flow cytometry (IFC), sometimes called multispectral imaging flow cytometry (MIFC), combines two techniques: flow cytometry and imaging microscopy.
Like a regular flow cytometer, IFC obtains forward and side-scatter information and records several fluorescence signals simultaneously from micrometer-sized particulate objects in a sample stream. In IFC, however, these data are recorded using a high-resolution microscope set-up, allowing the subsequent visualization of brightfield, darkfield, and fluorescence patterns on individual or overlaid images.
As a rather novel technique in particle characterization, IFC is mainly used as a research tool supporting more established techniques, such as flow imaging microscopy, during particle identification and troubleshooting. A clear benefit over other orthogonal techniques is the potential to connect particle morphology and fluorescence information on a particle-by-particle basis.
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- D.J. Houde, A.S. Berkowitz, eds., Biophysical Characterization of Proteins in Developing Biopharmaceuticals, 1st ed., Newnes, 2014
- S. Zölls, R. Tantipolphan, M. Wiggenhorn, G. Winter, W. Jiskoot, W. Friess, A. Hawe, Particles in therapeutic protein formulations, Part 1: overview of analytical methods., J. Pharm. Sci. 101 [2012] 914–35. doi:10.1002/jps.23001.
Applications
Imaging flow cytometry is typically used to analyze whole cell populations but can also be employed to analyze protein particles or other particulate matter present in biopharmaceutical drug products.
Quality and Biosafety Level
We provide all our analytical services with the highest quality standards. Experienced scientists carry out each project, and a scientific reviewer comprehensively checks every report or data presentation.
We offer this technology with the following quality and biosafety levels:
R&D level
We offer this method under R&D. Our GRP system assures the highest-quality research standards.
Up to biosafety level 1
This method can be applied to proteins, nucleic acids, and most viral vectors, including AAVs and more.
Analytical Method Development, Qualification and Validation
For common sample types, we can often apply standardized methods with little setup effort. However, when needed, our experienced analytical experts create or optimize custom methods tailored to your active pharmaceutical ingredient, product type and development phase.
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