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Published on: September 16, 2012
A model for harmonizing flow cytometry in clinical trials
Holden T Maecker1, J Philip McCoy,
1Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA. maecker@stanford.edu
Insights
Flow cytometry is complex for clinical trials. Using a central laboratory can simplify sample handling, instrument setup, and data analysis for immunological monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Clinical Trials
- Laboratory Medicine
Background:
- Flow cytometry is a powerful tool for monitoring immunological parameters.
- Challenges in sample handling, instrument setup, and data analysis hinder its widespread clinical trial application.
- Standardization across multiple sites is difficult to achieve.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the complexities of flow cytometry in clinical trials.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a central laboratory approach for immunological monitoring.
- To propose a solution for consistent and reliable flow cytometry data in clinical research.
Main Methods:
- A novel approach utilizing a central laboratory for flow cytometry analysis was implemented.
- Standardized protocols for sample handling, instrument calibration, and data acquisition were developed.
- Quality control measures were established to ensure data integrity and reproducibility.
Main Results:
- The central laboratory model successfully mitigated issues related to sample handling.
- Standardized instrument setup and data analysis procedures reduced variability.
- The approach facilitated consistent and reliable monitoring of immunological parameters.
Conclusions:
- A central laboratory model offers a viable solution to overcome flow cytometry complexities in clinical trials.
- This approach enhances the feasibility and reliability of immunological monitoring in research settings.
- Implementing standardized central laboratory workflows can improve the quality of clinical trial data.
Abstract:
Complexities in sample handling, instrument setup and data analysis are barriers to the effective use of flow cytometry to monitor immunological parameters in clinical trials. The novel use of a central laboratory may help mitigate these issues.

