SurroScan™ Cytometry

SurroScan cytometry is our proprietary, microvolume laser-scanning cytometry system which analyzes and profiles hundreds of different cell populations and cell-surface markers in small volumes of whole blood or other biological samples. The system provides a rapid and comprehensive assessment of differences in cell numbers, cell types and expression of cell-associated molecules related to disease or treatment.

The SurroScan system combines key features of both a hematology analyzer and a flow cytometer. Like a hematology analyzer, the system can be used with whole blood and yields absolute cell counts. Stationary cells are scanned in flat capillaries. Red laser excitation and appropriate dyes enable whole blood analysis while defined scan volumes enable direct absolute cell counts.

Like a flow cytometer the system can be used to immunophenotype multiple cellular antigens. Fluorophore-tagged antibody reagents are used to identify and characterize specific leukocyte populations. Cell measurements on these cytometers are highly reproducible. Additionally, they require minimal sample processing and can be run on whole blood, processed blood and other body fluids. This system, along with reagents, disposable capillary arrays and software, allow rapid, sensitive, automated and comprehensive cellular phenotyping.

We routinely run 64 or more three-color assays and controls on any given sample resulting in the identification of more than 200 distinct cell populations by means of their cell markers. Panels can be customized for each study. The assay panels allow the enumeration of the major cell populations and their subsets:

• Granulocytes
• Eosinophils
• Monocytes
• CD4 and CD8-T cells
• B cells
• NK cells
• Platelets

Assay panels can include analysis of both cell surface and intracellular antigens. Many assays are qualified for analysis a day after sample collection.