Advanced flow cytometry for biomedical applications.

Flow cytometry is a versatile tool with excellent capabilities to detect and measure multiple characteristics of a population of cells or particles. Notable advancements in in vivo photoacoustic flow cytometry, coherent Raman flow cytometry, microfluidic flow cytometry, etc. have been achieved in the last two decades, which endows flow cytometry with new functions and expands its applications in basic research and clinical practice. The advanced flow cytometry broadens the tools available to researchers to conduct research involving cancer detection, microbiology (COVID-19, HIV, bacteria, etc.), and nucleic acid analysis. This review presents an overall picture of advanced flow cytometers and provides not only a clear understanding of their mechanisms but also new insights into their practical applications. We identify the latest trends in this area and aim to raise awareness of advanced techniques of flow cytometry. We hope this review expands the applications of flow cytometry and accelerates its clinical translation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.