Flow Cytometry Shared Resource (FSRC)

Duke University, Durham NC

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

The Duke Cancer Institute Flow Cytometry Shared Resource (DCI-FCSR) provides equipment and expertise to the Duke Cancer Institute (DCI) investigators for comprehensive analytical flow cytometry and cell sorting applications. The DCI-FCSR supports cell sorting and/or analyzing populations of cells based on expression of surface proteins or fluorescent reporters and to perform batch or single-cell sorting. Flow cytometry allows investigators to analyze parameters such as cell death, cell cycle, cell signaling, and cytokine production as a function of cellular state or stimulation. Our Specific Aims are: 1) To maintain state-of-the-art cell sorters and analytical cytometers in a cost- effective manner; 2) To provide staff-assisted cell sorting, data acquisition and analysis services towards supporting the research of DCI members; 3) To provide expertise in assay development, troubleshooting, and data analysis; and 4) To train DCI members for the optional independent use of cytometers, cell sorters and analysis software. The DCI-FCSR maintains four analyzers and five cell sorters; all the analyzers and two cell sorters are available for self-use, 24 hrs. a day and 365 days a year. The highly experienced DCI-FCSR staff performs cell sorting, cell analysis, and post-acquisition data handling. These services would otherwise be unaffordable to investigators, given the costs, time, and training required to purchase, use, and maintain the necessary equipment. Flow cytometry services are not outsourced easily, given the fragile and time- sensitive nature of the cell preparations and the experimental protocols. In addition to the assisted services, the DCI-FCSR staff actively engages in DCI member research projects, working closely with clients to fine tune their individual experiments and develop strategies for best outcomes in real time. An important and continuing mission of the DCI-FCSR resource is educating clients to ensure that all DCI members use the services and technology available within the DCI-FCSR to best support their research goals that align with the discover-develop-deliver mission of the DCI. We provide ongoing training in the use of cytometers and associated software, and maintain a library to disseminate technical information to the users. The DCI-FCSR operates on a charge-back basis with different rates for staff-run or self-run work. DCI member laboratories get added value in the form of a 25% discount on usage fees compared to non- DCI member labs. In 2022, the DCI-FCSR provided services to 183 DCI investigators, 59% of whom accounted for all total usage and represented all 7 DCI Research Programs. Use of the shared resource by DCI Members, contributed to 142 cancer related publications, 42 of which were in journals of an impact Factor>10.