Accelerating analysis of viruses, vesicles and nanoparticles with nanoscale flow cytometry

Viruses and other nanoscale entities can dramatically impact global health. Indeed, over a quarter of the world's population was in lock-down during the peak of the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. We are applying for funding to purchase a piece of scientific equipment called a Flow NanoAnalyzer. This is an innovative machine that has significantly improved capabilities for measuring entities even smaller than human cells, including viruses, bacteria, extracellular vesicles, and medical nanomaterials. It works by flowing sample suspensions past a series of powerful lasers and very sensitive electronic detectors that can make thousands of measurements within minutes. Access to a Flow NanoAnalyzer will help Imperial's scientific community and our global collaborators to accelerate medical research into infectious diseases and chronic conditions, including cancers. Furthermore, this new equipment will also help us to accelerate the development of new medical nanotechnologies that will transform the way in which we diagnose and treat patients.