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Hello all,
I want to thank you all who responded to my questions about sorting
unfixed human cells. Some of the responses asked that a summary be
posted. This is what I have received so far:
1). A research based facility. They DO sort unfixed human cells with
no alterations to machine (Starplus). They take the standard
precautions (gloves, mask, gowns, bleach, ethanol).
2). A research based facility, They DO sort unfixed human cells, if and
only if, the blood has been tested for known pathogens. There is no
alterations on machine, and take standard precautions.
3). A research based facility. They DON'T sort unfixed human cells in a
air stream sorters. Magnetic beads would be a great alternative.
4). A research based facility. They DO sort unfixed human cells only if
the sample or donor has been proven negative for infectious agents.
They practice the standard clean up and protection procedures.
5). A research based facility. Expressed extreme concerns about the
procedure. Blood should be tested for known pathogens. Room should
be under negative pressure. HEPA filter face mask should be used.
6). This facility has an FACS Vantage DOES sort unfixed human cells,
but they purchased the biohazard containment system. The flow lab is
located in a BSL-2 facility and gown up as if in a P3 facility.
7). This facility is starting to sort unfixed human cells. They utilize a
FACS Vantage with some alterations on it (vacuum pump in sorting
chamber). They have talk to a OSHA rep which suggested a physical
barrier between the chamber and the operator. This lab plans to install
a plexiglass cover with negative air pressure created by an additional
vacuum.
It seems the consensus is that all blood should be tested before a sort
takes place, some type of biohazard containment system be in place,
and standard personal protection and clean-up with bleach and ethanol.
Some good points that were brought up was remember that the SIP is
another point of exposure and all this procedure depend on your
comfort with working with human samples.
Thank you all again who responded.
Davin Jutila
Director, Flow Cytometry Facility
Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
Springfield, Illinois 62794-9230
E-mail: djutila@wpsmtp.siumed.edu
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