Phagocytosis is a key biological activity of cells. After cells engulf extracellular material by phagocytosis, they are digested after binding to lysosomes. In addition, the cell's own senescent organelles are also removed after being bound by lysosomes. CD BioSciences' expertise in lysosomes provides strong support for measurement of the phagocytic activity of cells. Our advanced flow cytometry and microscopy platforms will bring you efficient and economical service, ensuring your 100% satisfaction.
Background of Measurement of Phagocytic Activity of Cells
Lysosomal phagocytosis refers to the formation of membrane wrapped phagocytic vesicles that are fed into the cytoplasmic lysosomes after foreign harmful substances are swallowed into the cell, and are either reused by the cell or excreted as waste. Lysosomal phagocytosis protects cells from bacteria and viruses, and removes unwanted host cells to maintain tissue homeostasis. Thus, phagocytosis is essential for the defense function of the cell. In addition, this process also triggers intracellular signaling pathways, which in turn trigger appropriate innate immunity and pro- or anti-inflammatory responses. The efficiency of phagocytosis directly affects host health.
Fig. 1. An overview of phagocytic and non-phagocytic pathways. (Stern S T, et al., 2012)
Services
Impaired lysosomal phagocytosis will enhance susceptibility to specific pathogens, and failure to clear apoptotic cells will also trigger a destructive autoimmune response. Phagocytosis has traditionally been studied in vitro. CD BioSciences offers a variety of favorable models and methodologies to study phagocytosis in vivo. We can conduct real-time studies in "transparent" organisms not only in Drosophila, C. elegans and zebrafish, but also in mammals such as mice. We will develop the best protocol for your project.
- Selecting the appropriate cell phagocytosis population.
- Selecting the right target particles.
- Selecting the right target particle-specific phagocytic receptor.
Our engineers combine genetic marker technology and high-resolution imaging to identify multiple species of phagocytic populations and phagocytic target cells. Here, we provide the following strategies to assess or quantify phagocytosis as well as analyze the kinetics of phagocytosis to facilitate your research in phagocytosis biology.
Microscopic Examination
- A high resolution technique.
- Provides spatial resolution, such as discriminating whether particles have internalized or bound.
- Paired with sophisticated image analysis software for statistical evaluation of data.
- Provides greater resolution and more sophisticated signal analysis.
Flow Cytometry
- A means with high sample throughput and rapid acquisition of statistical data.
- Requires independent verification that particles are being ingested rather than associated with the cell surface.
- Requires a relatively large number of phagocytes and target particles.
We comprehensively consider different experimental approaches or options to characterize and quantify phagocytic activity. Our highly skilled and dedicated scientific staff ensures that the most appropriate method and technology is selected for each specialized lysosomal project. If you have any special requirements about our services, please feel free to contact us. We are looking forward to working together with your attractive projects.
Reference
- Stern S T, Adiseshaiah P P, Crist R M. (2012) Autophagy and lysosomal dysfunction as emerging mechanisms of nanomaterial toxicity[J]. Particle and fibre toxicology. 9(1): 1-17.