Flow Cytometry Core

Flow Cytometry Core Abstract The Flow Cytometry Core was initially formed to fulfill the flow cytometry needs of the projects and pilot projects of the original COBRE Phase I application. The Core provided expertise in stem cell and rare cell separations, cell sorting and cell phenotyping analysis, by making available, state-of-the-art instrumentation for the flow cytometry needs of the COBRE investigators as well as the clinical and basic research community in Rhode Island. Today, the Flow Cytometry Core continues to fulfill this critical role and supports a multitude of research programs, projects and diverse research areas at Rhode Island Hospital and different institutions in the state of Rhode Island. It remains heavily utilized, partially due to the strong support and success of the COBRE’s here in Rhode Island but also the strategic importance and basic relevance that flow cytometry brings to the research community at large. This is the only research flow cytometry core facility at Rhode Island Hospital and the only research flow cytometry core facility that offers access to a 5-laser sorter, 4-laser analyzer and a mass cytometer in the state. Flow cytometry remains an extremely useful tool for researchers over many different research disciplines. The institution has been generous with its administrative and fiscal support of the Flow Cytometry Core. Notably, this year Rhode Island Hospital has purchased and installed, a Fluidigm Helios CyTOF system, that is now available through the COBRE Flow Cytometry Core. This CyTOF platform will be utilized by clinical and basic researchers in the State of Rhode Island and shows a high level of support and dedication to the success of the proposed COBRE Flow Cytometry Core. With the new state-of-the-art instrumentation and Core expansion plan directed towards expanding inclusion of clinical research projects, our Core is well positioned to continue its growth and achieve long-term financial sustainability.