FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Who can use the flow cytometry services?A: Services are available to all Texas A&M personnel only.
Q: What kinds of services are provided?
A: A: Analyses and up to four-way sorting.
Q: Am I allowed to use and operate the machine independently?
A: At this point, only those that have attended the Basic Flow Cytometer Operation and Maintenance and DiVa courses at the BD Biosciences facility are allowed. Otherwise, all samples are run by the operator.
Q: Where is the flow cytometer located?
A: At the Institute of Biosciences and Technology, 9th Floor, Room 913.
Q: How do I start using the services?
A: It's on a first-come-first-serve basis so check the FACS calendar first. Make the reservation online and fill out the necessary forms.
Q: What forms do I need to fill out and submit?
A: Two forms: Service Request (online - request and reservation) and Biosafety (fill out, sign, and submit in Room 905/FACS box).
Q: How much does it cost for the services?
A: At this point, there is no charge. The services are free.
Q: What is the software of the flow cytometer?
A: There are two: Cell Quest (Mac, analog) and DiVa v4.1.1 (PC, digital).
Q: Besides the DiVa and Cell Quest, are there other programs available to open flow cytometer files (FCS - flow cytometry standard) and to analyze data?
A: There are several but unfortunately we do not have them yet. We are in the process of acquiring additional software and setting up a work station for offline analyses.
Q: Do you provide reagents and fluorescent-tagged antibodies?
A: No, we do not provide any kind of reagent or antibody. All samples should be prepared properly and ready for loading.
