DATE: August 17, 2017
TIME: 10:00am PT, 1:00pm ET

Counterflow centrifugal elutriation (CCE) is a well-known technique used commonly several decades ago in scientific research. In this technique, cells are subjected to two opposing forces, centrifugal force and fluid velocity, which results in the separation of cells on the basis of size and density. With the advent of more sophisticated and automated technologies, the technique of CCE has taken a back-seat. However, CCE can still provide unique knowledge and scientific breakthroughs in research in several areas. There is a need to revive this technology in order to benefit the most from its unique capabilities. This webinar is aimed at describing the technique of CCE and how a wide range of scientific areas can apply this tool to advance their investigations. This technique is especially helpful in studying aspects of primary acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells. Under optimal conditions an essentially pure population of cells in G1 phase and a highly enriched population of cells in S and G2/M phases of cell cycle can be obtained in excellent yield. These cell populations are ideally suited for studying cell cycle-dependent mechanisms of action of anticancer drugs and for other applications. The limitations of the technique will also be discussed. The detailed methodology presented should facilitate application and exploration of the technique to other types of cells.