Image Cell sorting: Integrating cell image analysis into sorting approaches to Revolutionise Cell biology at UoM

The BD FACSDiscover S8 cell sorter with BD CellView Image Technology and BD SpectralFX Technology (hereafter referred to as the Discover S8) is a cutting-edge instrument that combines spectral cytometry and multicolour image-based cell sorting. The Discover S8 is not the only spectral flow cytometer on the market capable of cell sorting; however, by adding image-based sorting capabilities the Discover S8 represents a first-of-its-kind machine. As such the Discover S8 offers researchers the ability to sort and collect well defined cell populations based on cell imaging; enabling researchers to isolate cells by characteristics that were previously impossible to define on a conventional flow cytometer. Equipping globally renowned researchers within the University of Manchester (UoM) with this cutting-edge piece of equipment will drive forward research in priority areas including immunology, neuroscience, developmental biology, microbiology, fungal infection biology, and environmental sciences. The Discover S8 allows UoM researchers to isolate cell populations hitherto impossible to isolate, including cells with defined morphology or cell structures, distinct sub-cellular location of fluorescence, co-localisation of fluorescence signals, and/or cell doublets. These populations will be utilised in a plethora of downstream applications including transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, in vitro cellular assays, and in vivo transfer approaches to provide novel insights in molecular and cellular biology - driving forward research across a broad spectrum of biosciences.

Underpinning this application is a consortia of UoM researchers, from a breadth of research disciplines; this breadth highlighting the step-change in technological advancement offered by the Discover S8. By becoming integrated into a well-supported and managed UoM core facility, acquisition of a Discover S8 will immediately enable consortia members to address, as yet impossible to answer questions. For example the Discover S8 would allow sorting of cells in which fluorescence signal is localised to the nucleus compared to the cytoplasm, enabling interrogation of the consequences of protein function in distinct locations. Alongside this, the Discover S8 will function as a conventional spectral flow cytometry sorter enabling the highly in-demand sorting capabilities of the UoM Flow Cytometry Technology Platform (FCTP). This is vital as a key flow cytometry sorter within the FCTP, a BD Influx, will be decommissioned in January 2025 as it is no longer supported by the manufacturers. Purchase of the Discover S8, in addition to expanding UoM research capabilities, will therefore be essential to support continued provision of sorting capabilities for UoM researchers.

The Discover S8 provides unique integration of imaging technology into a flow cytometer. By awarding funds to purchase a Discover S8, the BBSRC would enable UoM researchers to isolate cells;

Based upon distinct cell morphology.
Based on specific cell image features including protein and/or particulate cell location, diffusivity, eccentricity, and intensity.
As definitive singlets and/or doublets of cells.

Being able to sort populations of cells using image-based parameters will open new avenues for research across a range of research fields, leading to breakthroughs in molecular and cellular biology.