As an organism, we develop from a single discrete cell into a complex structure and network of interconnecting blocks, each with its own highly specialized functions. In a paradigm of reverse engineering, science deconvolutes this complexity into separate organs, and down to a myriad of specific cells binned and typed by their differential structures and capabilities.Flow cytometry is one extremely powerful tool in the scientist arsenal for characterizing these cells at an individual level, as the microscope has done for centuries before. However, the power of flow cytometry is performing automated inspection on thousands of cells per second for hours on end. Moreover, each cell can be interrogated for dozens of unique characteristics that all go to define a functional and ontological state.However, as is indicative of the flexibility of flow cytometry, it is more than an exotic high-end research toy. A substantial number of clinical diagnostics are determined by dedicated flow cytometers ranging from complete blood counts to cancer determination to stem cell enumeration for transplant. It’s around you in many ways. As the technology evolves, I expect a continued migration from laboratory to bedside, as well as convergent integration with other tools such as whole genome sequencing, personalized drug cocktailing, and predictive diagnosis.The future is bright, and fluorescent!
Listed skills include Flow Cytometry, Cell Biology, Cell, Immunology, and 11 others.
