Cytometry Shared Resource

University Of Rochester, Rochester NY

Investigators

Abstract

CYTOMETRY SHARED RESOURCE: PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Flow cytometry allows for the characterization of biological processes at the whole cell level in multidimensional space. Using this technique, Wilmot Cancer Institute (Wilmot) researchers are able to advance their understanding of different cell types that are involved in cancer, and how novel treatments can impact these cells and biological processes. The Wilmot Cytometry Shared Resource (CSR) led by Tim Bushnell, PhD, MBA (ZY), and Tim Mosmann, PhD (ZY), provides researchers with access to tools and expertise to ensure that investigators obtain high-quality, reproducible data that will lead to a better understanding of cancer. The mission of the CSR is to provide investigators with state-of-the-art instrumentation along with expertise to support all that is possible now, while continuing to push the limits of what can be done with flow cytometry in the future. The main role of the CSR is to provide service and support for flow cytometry cell analysis and sorting, along with a robust quality-control program to ensure that discoveries are based on biologically relevant measurements. The CSR provides extensive high-dimensional data analytical support using publicly available tools, while collaborating with the Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource (BBSR) to develop novel analysis tools for exploring these datasets. The CSR also collaborates with Wilmot investigators to develop novel assays to provide the key information the research team seeks. Finally, the CSR is constantly working with Wilmot investigators to evaluate and acquire new technologies that will enhance the facility and offer researchers the tools to carry out their work. The CSR has recently added the CyTEK Spectral Analyzer, for example, based on Wilmot investigator feedback. The CSR supports basic and translational Wilmot research, as well as clinical trials. Collaboration between the CSR and other Wilmot Shared Resources is an active and continuous process, particularly in the area of genomic analysis, with the integration of flow and genomics expertise for transcriptional analysis at the bulk and single-cell level, and the development of novel analysis techniques with the BBSR. All three Wilmot research programs use the CSR, with 41% of Wilmot members utilizing CSR services and resources from November 2022 through October 2023. Moreover, since 2019, the CSR has supported more than 112 Wilmot investigator-driven peer-reviewed publications, including high-impact journals, such as Blood, Nature Communications, and Science. Moving forward, a major CSR focus will be evaluating and providing access to high-resolution imaging coupled with mass cytometry (i.e., Fluidigm Hyperion), expanding spectral cytometry offerings, and transitioning to the next-generation cell sorter. The CSR will continue the development of cancer immune cell profiling panels to aid Cancer Microenvironment investigators in cancer cell interactions with the immune microenvironment, in alignment with the Wilmot strategic plan.