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Characterizing Microbiome Dynamics – Flow Cytometry Based Workflows from Pure Cultures to Natural Communities
Published on: July 12, 2018
Flow cytometric characterization of marine microbes
Timothy W Petersen1, C Brent Harrison, Daniel N Horner
1Becton Dickinson Biosciences, Advanced Cytometry Group, 12730 28th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125, USA. tim_petersen@bd.com
Methods (San Diego, Calif.)
|July 17, 2012
Summary
Flow cytometry reveals new marine phytoplankton taxa and advances understanding of their role in the global carbon cycle. Careful instrument engineering is crucial for analyzing diverse phytoplankton sizes and contributions.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Oceanography
- Microbial Ecology
Background:
- Marine phytoplankton are vital to the global carbon cycle.
- Flow cytometry offers a powerful method for analyzing these microorganisms.
- Phytoplankton exhibit significant diversity in size and characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the utility of flow cytometry for marine phytoplankton analysis.
- To understand phytoplankton's ecological contributions and dynamics.
- To identify new phytoplankton taxa.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing flow cytometry for the analysis of marine phytoplankton.
- Measuring scattered laser light to accommodate broad size ranges.
- Engineering cytometers for marine environmental conditions.
Main Results:
- Discovery of novel marine phytoplankton taxa.
- Enhanced understanding of phytoplankton population dynamics.
- Quantification of phytoplankton contributions to the carbon cycle.
Conclusions:
- Flow cytometry is instrumental in advancing marine phytoplankton research.
- Instrument optimization is key to overcoming challenges in analyzing diverse marine microbial communities.
- This technology deepens insights into marine ecosystem functions and global biogeochemical cycles.
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