Technologic advances in flow cytometry

Abstract

Flow cytometry, as a groundbreaking technique in single-cell analysis, has evolved into a multi-dimensional technical framework over six decades of development. This paper systematically reviews its technological progression, ranging from conventional fluorescence labeling to spectral unmixing in spectral flow cytometry, advancements in metal tagging within mass cytometry, morphological and functional synchronous analysis in imaging flow cytometry, and ultimately achieving sub-micron-level detection in nanoparticle flow cytometry. Each technological advancement has expanded the boundaries of biological understanding. These innovations have substantially enhanced the sensitivity and dimensionality of single-cell analysis, and have thereby facilitated a range of clinical applications, which include tumor immunotherapy monitoring, cardiovascular disease risk assessment, and precise diagnosis of infectious diseases. Nevertheless, challenges remain in high-dimensional data processing, standardization protocols, and the translation of emerging technologies. This article aims to elucidate the technical context, highlight its impact on precision medicine, and provide a reference framework for interdisciplinary research.

Keywords: Flow cytometry; Imaging flow cytometry; Mass cytometry; Nanoparticle flow cytometry; Spectral flow cytometry.