In episode #23 of The Conversational Flow, Adam and Brian tackle the question: When can flow cytometry be applied to non-blood matrices, and what must be considered? Using sputum analysis as a case study, they outline the challenges of clinical trial sample collection, emphasizing the importance of pre-analytical factors like consistency, bias, logistics, and handling. They discuss how panel design, reagent selection, and defining the right cell populations are critical starting points, followed by gating strategies and quality control to ensure reliable data. The hosts stress that flow results in these nontraditional matrices are best suited for binary or threshold-based decisions, rather than precise quantitation, and compare the type of information generated to what can be gleaned from spatial data in solid tissues. Overall, the episode underscores that while non-blood matrices expand the possibilities for flow cytometry, success depends on rigorous standardization and thoughtful assay design.

“The Conversational Flow” an official podcast of KCAS Bio, and focuses on the more niche topic of Flow Cytometry and its role within the greater pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical and bioanalytical industries. Every month, KCAS Bio will bring you another 60 minutes (or so) of friendly banter between our two finest Flow Cytometry experts as they chat over coffee and discuss what they’ve learned about the world of Flow Cytometry the past couple of weeks. “The Conversational Flow” is brought to you by KCAS Bio.

KCAS Bio is a progressive growing contract research organization of well over 250 talented and dedicated individuals with growing operations in Kansas City, Doylestown, PA, and Lyon, France, where we are committed to serving our clients and improving health worldwide. Our experienced scientists provide stand-alone bioanalytical services to the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, animal health and medical device industries.