Excessive Autofluorescence in Solid Tissue Samples
Symptom
Solid tissue samples display much higher autofluorescence than PBMCs across multiple channels. Tissue-derived cells show elevated background due to structural proteins, extracellular matrix components, and pigments.
Common Causes
1Structural proteins and extracellular matrix components in solid tissues
2Tissue pigments contributing to broad-spectrum autofluorescence
3Epithelial cells containing structural proteins and pigments
4Tumor cells exhibiting elevated autofluorescence due to metabolic changes
5Aldehyde-based fixation further enhancing tissue autofluorescence
Solutions
1Use spectral flow cytometry to model and subtract complex tissue autofluorescence signatures
2Choose dyes outside autofluorescence range (far-red, infrared) for key tissue markers
3Include unstained tissue controls to establish tissue-specific autofluorescence baseline
4Minimize fixation time and wash thoroughly to reduce aldehyde-enhanced autofluorescence
5Prioritize red/far-red channels (633 nm and beyond) for critical markers in tissue samples