Cytek Biosciences (Fremont, CA) has introduced its Northern Lights advanced flow cytometry systems, which feature three lasers and more than 24 colors possible at a price point typically attached to systems with fewer capabilities. The series aims to make full-spectrum flow cytometry accessible to a larger number of scientists.
Incorporating the same spectral technology in the company's Aurora flow cytometry system, Northern Lights allows scientists to extract the same amount of information from one sample that would take three or four tubes using a conventional cytometer with a similar price.The systems expand with application requirements and can be upgraded from one laser (up to nine colors) to three lasers (beyond 24 colors). Their optical design and unmixing algorithm combine to enable the use of a wide array of dyes, including those with highly overlapping spectra such as APC and Alexa 647.
While conventional flow cytometers typically require five lasers to achieve 18+ colors, the Northern Lights systems enable the power of 24+ colors with three relatively low-maintenance lasers. They also allow for the use of any commercially available dyes that are excited by the onboard lasers, providing more opportunities for the use of lower-cost reagent options.
The company has introduced two new accessories for its flow cytometry solutions as well. First is a yellow/green laser that adds 10 more fluorescence detection channels (for a total of 48 detectors) for increased application flexibility (available for Cytek Aurora models only). The second is a plate loader that supports 96 well plates, three throughput modes, and user-customizable modes, and integrates into the Aurora and Northern Lights systems.
For more information, please visit cytekbio.com.