Virtaustutkimusta

Virtaustutkimus, also known as flow cytometry, is a technique used to analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of individual cells or particles in a fluid stream. It is widely used in biological and medical research for cell sorting, cell analysis, and clinical diagnostics. The process involves suspending cells or particles in a fluid stream and passing them through a laser beam. As the particles pass through the beam, they scatter light at different angles, and the scattered light is detected and analyzed. This data is used to identify and quantify different cell types or particles based on their unique light scattering and fluorescence properties.

Flow cytometry can be used to study various aspects of cell biology, including cell cycle analysis, cell differentiation, and cell death. It is also used in clinical settings for diagnosing and monitoring diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, and infectious diseases. The technique is highly sensitive and can detect rare cell populations, making it a valuable tool for research and clinical applications. Flow cytometry has evolved over the years, with advancements in laser technology, detectors, and data analysis software, leading to improved resolution and accuracy in cell analysis. Despite its limitations, such as the need for cell preparation and the potential for sample damage, flow cytometry remains a powerful technique for studying cells and particles in a fluid stream.