DNA ploidy and genome size estimation using flow cytometry (Dan B.)

Flow cytometry (FCM) is – in principle – a relatively simple technique that allows one to measure properties of cells or organelles as they are intercepted (individually) by a high-intensity light source. In plant biology, it is often used to analyze extracts of intact nuclei, with the aim of determining DNA content and (indirectly) ploidy levels (this is the application I will focus on here). A good reference (including troubleshooting tips) can be found here.

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