[Skip to Content](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com#main-content) [](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en) Products Cart0 USEN Products [Login / Register](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/oidc-sign-in) [Order Lookup](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/order-lookup) [Quick Order](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/quick-order) Cart0 [Home](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en)[Applications](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/applications)[Protein Biology](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/applications/protein-biology)Flow Cytometry # Flow Cytometry  Flow cytometry is a technology that uses single or multiple lasers to provide a multi-parametric analysis of single cells. Each cell or particle is analyzed by visible light scatter or by fluorescence as cells rapidly flow past each laser. Independent of light scatter analysis, fluorescence measurements are achieved by transfection and expression of common fluorescent proteins (e.g. Green Fluorescent Protein, GFP) and staining with fluorescently conjugated antibodies or fluorescent dyes. Flow cytometry is a powerful technology that is commonly used in molecular and cellular biology research applications, including immunology, cancer biology, and disease research. * * * ## Related Products Slide 1 of 19 1 of 5 [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ FCABS400F \ Milli-Mark® Anti-FcεRI Antibody, γ subunit-FITC](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/fcabs400f) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ MAB1217F \ Anti-FMC-7 B-Cell Lymphocyte Marker Antibody, clone FMC-7, FITC conjugated](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/mab1217f) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ 16-202A \ Anti-phospho-Histone H2A.X (Ser139) Antibody, clone JBW301, FITC conjugate](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/16202a) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ FCMAB108A4 \ Anti-phospho-SMC1 (Ser957) Antibody, clone 5D11G5 Alexa Fluor™ 488](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/fcmab108a4) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ 16-256 \ Anti-Phosphatidylserine Antibody, clone 1H6, Alexa Fluor™ 488](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/16256) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ FCMAB108A4 \ Anti-phospho-SMC1 (Ser957) Antibody, clone 5D11G5 Alexa Fluor™ 488](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/fcmab108a4) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ E4011 \ ExtrAvidin®−R-Phycoerythrin](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/sigma/e4011) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ P4247 \ Anti-Potassium Channel Kv1.3 (extracellular)−FITC antibody produced in rabbit](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/sigma/p4247) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ F5662 \ Monoclonal Anti-HLA Class I Antigen−FITC antibody produced in mouse](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/sigma/f5662) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ MAB1285FX \ Anti-HLA-B27,Cln HLA-ABC-m3 FITC (mouse monoclonal)](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/mab1285fx) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ FCMAB312F \ Milli-Mark® Anti-Galactocerebroside-FITC Antibody, clone mGalC](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/fcmab312f) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ 16-232 \ Anti-α-Tubulin Antibody, clone DM1A, Alexa Fluor™ 488 conjugate](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/16232) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ SAB4700448 \ Monoclonal Anti-MYC-FITC , (C-terminal) antibody produced in mouse](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/sigma/sab4700448) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ MAB1794H \ Anti-Human B cells (CD19) Antibody, clone FMC63, Phycoerythrin conjugated](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/mab1794h) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ FCMAB176F \ Milli-Mark Anti-CD8 -FITC Antibody, clone DK25](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/fcmab176f) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ MAB377 \ Anti-NeuN Antibody, clone A60](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/mab377) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ MABE343 \ Anti-Puromycin Antibody, clone 12D10](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/mabe343) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ 05-201 \ Anti-Fas Antibody (human, activating), clone CH11](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/05201) Quick View [ \ Sigma-Aldrich \ MAB1398Z \ Anti-PECAM-1 Antibody, clone 2H8, Azide Free](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/mm/mab1398z) Quick View * * * ## Featured Categories [](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/products/protein-biology/antibodies/flow-cytometry-antibodies) [Flow Cytometry Antibodies](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/products/protein-biology/antibodies/flow-cytometry-antibodies) Explore our selection of high-quality flow cytometry antibodies to find the right primary and secondary antibodies for your flow cytometry analysis research. 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[Shop Products](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/products/protein-biology/antibodies/secondary-antibodies) * * * Overview Related Articles & Protocols Support ## Flow Cytometry Antibodies and Labels Performing flow cytometry analysis involves using various flow cytometry antibodies and labels. Flow cytometry antibodies are used to specifically bind to different cell markers, helping to characterize the cell type and assess any changes in protein expression as part of the experiment. Numerous types of labels can be used to visualize the antibodies for detection in the flow cytometer depending on the experimental design including nucleic acid dyes, cell viability dyes, polymer dyes, quantum dots, small organic molecules, and fluorescent proteins. Antibodies are typically labeled through direct conjugation (either as commercially available products or conjugation kits allowing the end user to perform the reaction) or through the use of secondary antibodies.  ## Flow Cytometry Applications Numerous fields of study use flow cytometry and often analyze multiple parameters within diverse populations of cells. Common molecular biology applications include analysis of recombinantly expressed fluorescent proteins that have induced expression in various cell types to elucidate gene function or for *in vivo* cell tracking. Whereas the staining of DNA allows for cell cycle analysis, the use of antibodies allow for a wide range of analyses including, signal transduction, RNA, and protein expression. However, immunophenotyping is one of most commonly used applications of flow cytometry. With immunophenotyping, fluorochrome-conjugated antibodies target multiple cell surface antigens to identify specific immune cells within population of cells. ## [](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com)Flow Cytometry Data Analysis Flow cytometry data analysis often involves identifying a specific region of cells or cluster and applying additional parameters within the experiment, including investigating if additional cell identifying factors are present to gain further insight on cellular identity. Numerous computer software programs are available and commonly used to facilitate this kind of data analysis and other cell cycle analyses. ## Flow Cytometry Instrumentation A summary of the primary components used in flow cytometers includes electronics, optics, and fluidics. The fluidics serves as the liquid delivery system to direct the sample to the optic components, consisting of excitation optics (laser) and the collection optics that consist of photodiodes and photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Importantly, the electronics components convert the information from the detectors into digital signals that are interpreted by computers. Combinations of additional systems facilitate more advanced sample analyses, including the use of cell sorters to purify and collect samples, and imaging cytometers that combine both flow cytometry with fluorescence microscopy.  [](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/documents-search) [Looking for More Specific Information?](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/documents-search) Visit our document search for data sheets, certificates and technical documentation. [Find Documents](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/documents-search) ## Related Articles - [Multicolor Flow Cytometry | Tips for Building Flow Cytometry Panels](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/multicolor-flow-cytometry-tips) Uncover tips for multicolor flow cytometry experiments, including the challenges in multicolor flow cytometry, steps for how to build a multicolor flow cytometry panel, tandem dyes, and tools for multicolor assay design. - [Flow Cytometry Dye Selection Tips](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/how-to-select-flow-cytometry-dyes) Flow cytometry dye selection tips match fluorophores to flow cytometer configurations, enhancing panel performance. - [Flow Cytometry Troubleshooting Guide](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/flow-cytometry-troubleshooting-guide) Troubleshooting guide offers solutions for common flow cytometry problems, ensuring improved analysis performance. - [Cell Proliferation EdU Assay for DNA Synthesis Detection](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/cell-culture-and-cell-culture-analysis/cell-based-assays/cell-proliferation-edu-assay-for-dna-synthesis-detection) Explore the EdU Cell Proliferation Assay for fast DNA synthesis detection in cell biology, oncology, and drug research. - [Fluorescent *in situ* Hybridization (FISH)](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/cell-culture-and-cell-culture-analysis/imaging-analysis-and-live-cell-imaging/fish-procedure) Available Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) procedures, reagents and equipment. - [See All (11)](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/search/facet-search?focus=sitecontent&term=facet-search) ## Related Protocols - [Flow Cytometry Guide](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/protocol/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/flow-cytometry-guide) Explore our flow cytometry guide to uncover flow cytometry basics, traditional flow cytometer components, key flow cytometry protocol steps, and proper controls.” - [Key Steps in Flow Cytometry Protocols](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/protocol/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/key-steps-in-flow-cytometry-protocols) Learn key steps in flow cytometry protocols to make your next flow cytometry experiment run with ease. - [Prestige Antibody® Immunofluorescence](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/protocol/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/immunofluorescence-procedure) Immunofluorescence Protocol details Prestige Antibodies' subcellular localization studies in A-431, U-2 OS, and U-251MG cell lines. - [Installation & Use of Milli-Q® SQ *2Series* Water Purification Systems](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/protocol/analytical-chemistry/wet-chemical-analysis/installation-use-of-milli-q-2series-water-purification-system) View instructional videos and download User Manuals for Milli-Q® SQ *2Series* lab water systems. You’ll be up and running in no time. Buy online systems, accessories, cartridges and services. - [Protocol Guide: Immunofluorescent Staining of Whole-Mount Organoids using Antibodies](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/protocol/cell-culture-and-cell-culture-analysis/3d-cell-culture/organoid-antibody-staining) How to stain organoids? A complete step-by-step protocol for immunofluorescent (IF) and immunocytochemical (ICC) staining of organoid cultures using antibodies - [See All (6)](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/search/facet-search?focus=sitecontent&term=facet-search) ### Find More Articles and Protocols Enter Keywords Search ## How Can We Help In case of any questions, please submit a [customer support request](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/support/customer-support) or talk to our customer service team: Email [custserv@sial.com](mailto:custserv@sial.com) or call +1 (800) 244-1173 ## Additional Support - [Chromatogram Search](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/chromatogram-search) Use the Chromatogram Search to identify unknown compounds in your sample. - [Calculators & Apps](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/support/calculators-and-apps) Web Toolbox - science research tools and resources for analytical chemistry, life science, chemical synthesis and materials science. - [Customer Support Request](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/support/customer-support) Customer support including help with orders, products, accounts, and website technical issues. - [FAQ](https://maestro.my.site.com/knowledgeportal/s/) Explore our Frequently Asked Questions for answers to commonly asked questions about our products and services. * * * __Featured Articles__ [Multicolor Flow Cytometry | Tips for Building Flow Cytometry Panels](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/multicolor-flow-cytometry-tips) Uncover tips for multicolor flow cytometry experiments, including the challenges in multicolor flow cytometry, steps for how to build a multicolor flow cytometry panel, tandem dyes, and tools for multicolor assay design. [Flow Cytometry Dye Selection Tips](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/how-to-select-flow-cytometry-dyes) Flow cytometry dye selection tips match fluorophores to flow cytometer configurations, enhancing panel performance. [Flow Cytometry Troubleshooting Guide](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/protein-biology/flow-cytometry/flow-cytometry-troubleshooting-guide) Troubleshooting guide offers solutions for common flow cytometry problems, ensuring improved analysis performance. Top __Sign In To Continue__ To continue reading please sign in or create an account. Sign In__Don't Have An Account?__Register An unknown error has occured. - English - EN - Español - ES [Learn More](https://www.sigmaaldrich.com)