How is fluorescence measured in a flow cytometer?

What is the role of the in-line detector in a flow cytometer?

The fluorescence in a flow cytometer is measured by a detector set at an angle to the light source. There is also an in-line detector that can detect cell clumps or aggregates.

Measuring Fluorescence in a Flow Cytometer

Fluorescence in a flow cytometer is a crucial component of the analysis process. When cells pass through the flow cytometer, they are exposed to a laser beam that excites fluorescent dyes within the cells. The emitted fluorescence is then measured by a detector that is set at an angle to the light source. This detector captures the fluorescent signals and converts them into electrical signals for analysis.

The Role of the In-line Detector

The in-line detector in a flow cytometer plays a vital role in ensuring the accuracy of the analysis. This detector is positioned along the same axis as the light source and is specifically designed to detect cell clumps or aggregates. When cells clump together, it can lead to inaccurate measurements as individual cells may not be properly analyzed. The in-line detector identifies these clumps and flags them for exclusion from the analysis. By excluding clumps, the in-line detector helps in obtaining precise and reliable data on individual cells.