Cell sorting, using fluorescently labeled antibodies

Antibodies labeled with fluorescent molecules have several applications, particularly in cytochemistry and cell sorting. There are many fluorochromes used in labeling (1), such as coumarin derivatives, phycobiliproteins, and rare earth chelates however, fluorescein and rhodamine (Table 1) are the most commonly used. 

This chapter provides an introduction to the use of fluorescent probes in flow cytometry. Sample preparation for the use of surface labeling with antibodies as well as for the use of nucleic acid probes is discussed. The utility of cell sorting is also discussed. 

The choice of label will depend on the application envisaged. Enzymes are widely applicable they are used in assays, such as ELISAs, and for detection of antigen blotted or dotted on membranes or embedded in tissue sections. Enzyme labels have also be used for the location of antigen in electron microscope sections but gold labelled antibodies (Chapter 11) are now extensively employed for this purpose. Antibodies labelled with a fluorescent molecule are used in assays and for the detection of antigens in tissue sections and also for flow cytometiy and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. 

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