Applications in Flow Cytometry (FLOWNEW)

Flow cytometry is a very well known technique in medical sciences that is also used for food quality and drinking water analyses. This technique allows for detection and analysis of particles in suspension. ILVO is developing novel applications for flow cytometry in plant research. The most important applications relate to plant genetics and plant pathology; one well known example is performing ploidy analyses in plant breeding. This project focuses on increasing knowledge about genome sizes, genetic diversity and particle concentrations in plant pathogens, plant tissues, pollen, seeds, protoplasts, etc.

Developing novel applications in flow cytometry for plant research enables us to visualize and determine particle populations. Examples are genome size analysis (DNA content) in different types of organisms such as plants, fungi, and others. With this research we gain knowledge about genetic diversity. Another application involves the combination of different stains to attempt to discriminate between live and dead cells. We also test flow cytometry applications for a broad range of plant tissues, plant pathogens, pollen, seeds, protoplasts etc.

Advanced competence in flow cytometry is a valuable tool for ILVO because it has potential applications in various research areas, especially plant research. ILVO has been using flow cytometry since 1992. Each year, ILVO performs 20,000 routine analysis for internal use as well as for private companies and external researchers in breeding and plant research. Collaboration with external partners leads to novel applications and common output such as scientific publications and practical information, for example in plant breeding.