Uses of flow cytometry in virology

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Flow cytometry is a versatile technique for analyzing cells.
• Detecting and quantifying virus-infected cells is crucial for understanding viral pathogenesis and treatment efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review published applications of flow cytometry for detecting and enumerating virus-infected cells.
• To evaluate sample preparation, fixation, and permeabilization techniques for various virus-cell systems.
• To discuss the use of flow cytometry in multiparameter analysis of virus-cell interactions and antiviral compound efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature on flow cytometry applications in virology.
• Evaluation of sample preparation techniques (fixation, permeabilization) for different virus-cell systems.
• Analysis of multiparameter flow cytometry for studying specific viruses (SV40, HSV, HCMV, HIV) and antiviral effects.

Main Results:

• Flow cytometry enables multiparameter analysis of virus-cell interactions for numerous viruses.
• Techniques for sample preparation, fixation, and permeabilization are critical for accurate detection.
• The technology is effective for rapid diagnosis of human cytomegalovirus and human immunodeficiency virus infections.
• Flow cytometry is valuable for monitoring patients undergoing antiviral therapy.

Conclusions:

• Flow cytometry is a key technology for in vitro and in vivo detection and enumeration of virus-infected cells.
• Its application extends to diagnosing viral infections and monitoring therapeutic responses.
• Future prospects include rapid diagnosis of in vivo viral and bacterial infections.