Enhancing Flow Cytometry Multiplexing Panels with New StarBright™ Spectral Dyes 2259336

M Michael Blundell (Bio-Rad Labs) S Sharon Sanderson (Bio-Rad Labs) L Lei Huang (BLSA-ZJU Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.) R Ryan Mendoza (Bio-Rad Labs) T Tracey Long (Bio-Rad Labs)

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Full spectrum cytometry is increasingly preferred over conventional cytometry for its ability to generate data from larger, more complex panels. However, progress is hampered by the limited availability of suitable dyes. Many existing fluorophores are dim, have poor stability, lack a unique emission wavelength, or have high spectral overlap, limiting panel optimization and affecting data quality. Results Bio-Rad’s StarBright Dyes for flow cytometry have expanded to 36 fluorophores with the addition of four new Spectral StarBright Dyes, purpose-built for spectral cytometry, where no fluorophores with similar peak emissions exist. They address key challenges by providing bright, narrowly defined emission spectra, allowing larger panels to be acquired. Using data obtained from a Cytek Aurora (Cytek Biosciences), we show that these new dyes also enhance existing panels by replacing suboptimal traditional fluorophores, minimizing spectral overlap and spreading without compromising data quality Conclusion New Spectral StarBright Dyes provide the same benefits as current StarBright Dyes and are compatible with the existing dyes and other fluorophores, ensuring seamless integration into established workflows. The wide choice available simplifies panel design and offers alternatives for conventional dyes, offering improved performance while maintaining compatibility with standard protocols. Funding Source n/a Topic Categories Technological Innovations in Immunology (TECH)

Article Details

Volume / Issue Vol. 215, Issue Supplement_1
Published August 01, 2026
ISSN 0022-1767
Publisher American Association of Immunologists

Authors (5)

M

Michael Blundell

Bio-Rad Labs

S

Sharon Sanderson

Bio-Rad Labs

L

Lei Huang

BLSA-ZJU Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.

R

Ryan Mendoza

Bio-Rad Labs

T

Tracey Long

Bio-Rad Labs