Flowcytometry Antibodies

Flow cytometry antibodies are specialized antibodies used in flow cytometry, a technique that allows for the rapid analysis of physical and chemical characteristics of cells or particles as they flow in a fluid stream through a laser beam. These antibodies are typically conjugated to fluorochromes (fluorescent dyes) that emit light at specific wavelengths, enabling the detection and quantification of cell surface or intracellular proteins.

Content: Flow cytometry antibodies can be used to target a wide range of cell markers, including:

• Cell Surface Markers: Such as CD (Cluster of Differentiation) antigens (e.g., CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, CD56). These markers are essential for identifying and characterizing different immune cell subsets, such as T cells, B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and monocytes. Flow cytometry antibodies targeting CD markers help in immunophenotyping and studying immune responses.
• Intracellular Proteins: Including transcription factors (e.g., FOXP3, NFAT), cytokines (e.g., IFN-γ, IL-2, TNF-α), and signaling molecules (e.g., phosphorylated kinases like p-STAT3, p-AKT). These antibodies require cell permeabilization before staining and are used to study cell signaling, protein expression, and the activation state of cells.

Applications: Flow cytometry antibodies are widely used in various research and clinical applications, including:

• Cell Health and Apoptosis Assays: To monitor cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis. Flow cytometry antibodies targeting markers like Ki-67, Annexin V, and cleaved caspase-3 can be used to determine cell cycle status, detect early and late apoptosis, and assess the effects of drugs on cell survival.
• Stem Cell Research: To isolate and analyze stem and progenitor cells based on the expression of stem cell markers. This application is critical for research in regenerative medicine, where identifying and sorting specific cell types, such as hematopoietic stem cells (CD34+), is necessary for cell therapy and tissue engineering.
• Drug Screening and Development: To evaluate the effects of potential therapeutic agents on specific cell populations. Flow cytometry antibodies enable the assessment of drug efficacy by measuring changes in cell surface markers, signaling proteins, or cell health markers, providing insights into drug mechanisms and potential side effects.

Flow cytometry antibodies are indispensable tools in both basic and applied sciences. They enable researchers to dissect complex biological systems, understand disease mechanisms, and develop new therapeutic strategies.