Expand the Parameters of Possibility
BD offers a full suite of high-performance instruments, a comprehensive choice of fluorochromes, and advanced data analysis tools to help you every step of the way.
Regardless of your instrument of choice, a full overview of how you can accelerate your spectral flow is waiting.
Spectral vs conventional flow cytometry comparison
| Feature | Spectral | Conventional |
| Detector and fluorochrome ratio | More detectors than fluorochromes | 1:1 |
| Individual fluorochrome contribution determination | Unmixing | Compensation |
| Fluorochrome choice | Dependent on laser configuration | Dependent on laser and filter configuration |
| Autofluorescence extraction | Yes | No |
| Resolution of highly similar fluorochromes | Yes | No |
| Multi-color panel capability | 50+ colors | ~28 colors |
What remains the same?
- Workflow (sample prep, staining, acquisition)
- Need for accurate single-stain controls for unmixing
- Panel design principles
Introduction to spectral flow cytometry
Watch the spectral flow cytometry videos below to explore various topics, such as the fundamentals of spectral and conventional flow cytometry, how you can use more fluorochromes per laser line using spectral flow cytometry, how to use spectral flow cytometry for increased panel size, and more.
Fundamentals of spectral versus conventional flow cytometry
The video addresses the following questions:
- What is spectral flow cytometry?
- What are the similarities and differences between conventional and spectral flow cytometry?
- How do you read spectral signatures?
- What is unique about spectral flow cytometry?
Autofluorescence unmixing
The video addresses the following questions:
- What is autofluorescence unmixing?
- How can autofluorescence impact biological resolution?
- What are cell-specific autofluorescence signatures?
Fluorochrome choice flexibility
The video addresses the following questions:
- How to select fluorochromes in either conventional or spectral flow cytometry?
- How does spectral flow cytometry support the use of more fluorochromes per laser line?
- What are the advantages of using spectral flow cytometry for fluorescent protein detection?
Increased panel size
The video addresses the following questions:
- How does spectral flow cytometry enable resolution of highly similar fluorochromes?
- What are the similarity index and guidelines for the use of highly similar fluorochromes?
- What are the specifics behind a 40-color multicolor spectral flow cytometry panel?
For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
Alexa Fluor (AF) is a trademark of Thermo Fisher Scientific. Cy is a trademark of Global Life Sciences Germany GmbH or an affiliate doing business as Cytiva.
