Flow Cytometry Overview

How do chemicals affect our immune system?

How do you measure immune system damage?

	What is Dioxin? Dioxin is a general name for a large group of chemical compounds with similar structure. These compounds are made up of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and chlorine atoms. Continue...

The Immune System and Foreign Invaders AAACHHOOO!! Your friend has a terrible cold, and he sneezes right next to you without covering his mouth. Not only is this gross, it sprays millions of cold viruses into the air around you. Luckily, you don’t get sick. Why not? Your body has an amazing internal defense mechanism called the immune system which protects you from bacteria and viruses that can lead to illness. Continue...

	What Can You Use to Study Damage to the Immune System? The flow cytometer (sy-TAH-mee-ter; cyto: cell, meter: measure) is a unique instrument used in both health care and research laboratories. Continue...

Flow Cytometry: How Does it Work? The tissue sample is broken up into single cells and held in a test tube, which is placed into the flow cytometer. The liquid containing the cells is drawn up from the test tube and pumped into the flow chamber. Continue...

Scientist Interview With Dr. Nancy Kerkvliet

“In high school I always liked my science classes and did well in them. I took chemistry, biology, and physics but I really liked chemistry the most.” Continue...