NEXTSCREEN
Enhanced imaging flow cytometry
Writer
Celeste Chidiac, PhD
Keywords
Microfluidic Devices, Intelligent Microfluidics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning
Author
Marco De Battista
Publication Date
June 28, 2023
Keywords
Intelligent Microfluidics
Deep Learning
Microfluidic Devices
Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning
imaging flow cytometry
single-cell analysis
high-throughput imaging
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Microfluidics for enhanced imaging flow cytometry allows unprecedented microscopic resolution, low costs, and broad applications.
Microfluidics in flow cytometry: introduction
Characterization of the cellular heterogeneity of complex biological systems requires high-throughput screening techniques. Single-cell screening in large cellular populations is crucial for characterizing pathogenic drivers and biomarkers.
One of the most common methods for single-cell analysis is optical microscopy, which allows for the characterization of cellular features such as morphology, structure, antigen abundance, localization, and others.
Flow cytometry techniques have been developed to extend optical microscopy to a large volume of biological samples. This imaging procedure involves moving material through a controlled flow before microscope lenses, capturing live images.
There is an ongoing effort to develop enhanced imaging flow cytometry techniques. However, several challenges must be addressed for this technique to become more widespread.
These challenges include difficulties related to the accurate interpretation of acquired images, the high costs and complexity of the technique, and a lack of standardization.
NEXTSCREEN aims to address these challenges by training 11 young doctoral candidates in different international research institutions, forming a highly cooperative doctoral network to develop new competencies and improve their careers.
How enhanced imaging flow cytometry will take place: project description
The NEXTSCREEN project entails the creation of a European MSCA doctoral network. The outlined aims are to reduce the cost and complexity of automatic cellular and particle screenings, expand flow cytometry utilization by developing novel contrast mechanisms and higher resolution, and artificial intelligence image analysis for automation. The development of new protocols will allow for increased standardization and future reproducibility.
A scientific objective and proof of concept will be the demonstration that flow cytometry can be used for identifying and characterizing tumor biomarkers in blood-derived samples.
The long-term goal is to have enhanced imaging flow cytometry become an in-vitro diagnostics device. The 11 doctoral candidates will each focus on distinct yet interconnected subprojects collaborating with academic and industrial institutions.
Enhanced imaging flow cytometry: our role
We intend to have an essential role in developing enhanced imaging flow cytometry. Specifically, the doctoral candidate will design fluidic control systems for ultra-low-flux and ultra-high-throughput flow cytometry.
This work will be crucial to achieving super-resolution and high-throughput imaging for flow cytometry.
Thanks to our experience in microfluidics, we will develop innovative flow control systems while also contributing to the training in fluidics engineering of other doctoral candidates.
The development of flow control manipulation techniques is essential for the customization of flow cytometry utilization (rapid mixing, sequential injection/flow switching, heating, and others).
Funding and Support
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon research and innovation program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement no. 101119729 (NEXTSCREEN).
Topic: HORIZON-MSCA-2022-DN 01-01
Start date: 01 December 2023
End date: 30 November 2027
EU contribution: € 2,608,819.19
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FAQ – Enhanced imaging flow cytometry: NEXTSCREEN
What is microfluidics in flow cytometry?
Microfluidics in flow cytometry involves manipulating fluids at the microscale to precisely control how cells or particles flow through a cytometer. This enables high-throughput, accurate imaging of single cells as they move through a narrow channel past the microscope lenses.
Why is single-cell analysis important?
Single-cell analysis enables researchers to study the unique characteristics of individual cells within a larger population. This is essential for identifying cellular heterogeneity, understanding disease mechanisms, and discovering new biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
What is imaging flow cytometry?
Imaging flow cytometry combines the quantitative power of flow cytometry with the detailed visualization of optical microscopy. It captures live images of cells in flow, allowing researchers to analyze cell morphology, structure, and molecular expression at high throughput.
What are the current challenges in enhanced imaging flow cytometry?
Some of the main challenges include:
- Accurate interpretation of complex image data
- High costs and technical complexity
- Lack of standardized protocols and reproducibility across laboratories
What is the NEXTSCREEN project?
NEXTSCREEN is an European MSCA doctoral network designed to advance enhanced imaging flow cytometry. It brings together 11 doctoral candidates across international institutions to address current technical and methodological challenges in the field.
What are the main objectives of the NEXTSCREEN project?
The project aims to:
- Reduce the cost and complexity of cellular and particle screening
- Develop novel contrast mechanisms and higher-resolution imaging
- Implement artificial intelligence for automated image analysis
- Establish standardized and reproducible flow cytometry protocols
How will enhanced imaging flow cytometry be applied in research and diagnostics?
A key scientific goal is to demonstrate that enhanced imaging flow cytometry can identify and characterize tumor biomarkers in blood samples. In the long term, the technique could evolve into a reliable in-vitro diagnostic tool for clinical applications.
What role does microfluidics play in the NEXTSCREEN project?
Microfluidics enables precise fluid control, which is critical for achieving ultra-high-throughput and super-resolution imaging. Through innovative flow manipulation techniques, such as rapid mixing, sequential injection, and controlled heating, microfluidics enhances both flexibility and performance in flow cytometry systems.
What is our organization’s specific contribution to the project?
Our team focuses on designing fluidic control systems for next-generation flow cytometers. This includes creating ultra-low-flux and ultra-high-throughput systems, training other researchers in fluidics engineering, and developing advanced flow control methods to optimize cytometry performance.
