Cancer Center Amsterdam

Why an advanced course in cytometry? Cytometry has become a fundamental technology that enables scientific applications in multiple disciplines including fundamental (Cell Biology), translational (Immunology) and clinical research (Hematology and Oncology). The last 10 years have witnessed an explosion in the development of fluorescence- and mass-based detection methods that are revolutionizing the field. Recently, genomic cytometry and immunophenotyping on tissue have been added to the arsenal of possibilities within most advanced core facilities. An integral part of the responsibilities of cytometry core facilities is to provide educational support and technical training to facilitate access to cytometry-based methods, in order to ultimately ensure the generation of reproducible quality data and an optimal use of existing resources.
General Learning Objectives This is a comprehensive course that covers the fundamentals of flow cytometry analysis and sorting, as well as mass cytometry in a lecture format supplemented by practical lab and data analysis sessions. The course is designed to gain in depth knowledge on general technical aspects of the different types of cytometers available in the market and how the different components and their configuration influence data acquisition. Special emphasis is placed on basic concepts of lasers and fluorescence emission, how to properly set up a cytometer for standardized performance, how to optimally prepare cells for a cytometry experiment, the principle of FACS-based cell sorting, and other specialized applications, including data analysis.