Sample Quality Loss During Overnight Storage (Flow Cytometry (Fixation & Permeabilization))

Question

Accepted Answer

Reduced staining intensity or increased background when fixed samples are analyzed the next day. Signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates despite proper fixation. Common causes: 1) Incompatible fluorophores used with fixation protocols intended for overnight storage 2) Improper storage temperature causing gradual fluorescence decay 3) Lack of fixation-compatible fluorophores in the staining panel 4) Degradation of tandem dyes during extended storage even under fixation Solutions: 1) Use fixation-compatible fluorophores when overnight storage is planned 2) Store properly fixed cells at 4°C in darkness for optimal preservation 3) Process samples immediately when possible to avoid storage-related degradation 4) Validate that staining quality is maintained after overnight storage for each fluorophore