Highlights From the International Society for the Advancement of Cytometry Conference 2025 by Martin Turcotte
CYTO 2025, the 38th annual Congress of the International Society for the Advancement of Cytometry, is the premier, inclusive, and international conference on the many facets of cytometry science and engineering. I was excited to make the trip to Denver, CO, this year, to represent Altasciences, alongside my colleague Megan Templeton, Senior Scientist at Altasciences.
The event proved to be a dynamic reflection of the current flow cytometry landscape. While the focus in previous years was on spectral cytometry, this year, AI was clearly on the rise, from advanced data integration tools to high-dimensional visualization options.
INSIGHTFUL CYTOMETRY WORKSHOPS
Spectral cytometry continues to evolve. BD Biosciences showcased their FACSDiscover A8TM as the first provider on the market to combine live-cell imaging with spectral flow cytometry—a useful analytical tool for any institution performing innovative science. Miftek showcased their single photon detection technology for the application of spectral cytometry with their CytoSPECTRUMTM cytometer, and demonstrated how they can drastically decrease instrument noise. I’m curious to see if this will develop into the next revolution in cytometry!
Several other initiatives captivated my attention, including one on isolation, cryopreservation, and thawing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).
Specifically for flow cytometry, isolation and cryopreservation of cells allow the preservation of the samples over an extended period of time, making it easier to transport over long distances and store for long periods, without damaging the biological material. Prior to sample analysis, thawing of the samples is important, and it can be tricky to ensure a good quality data output.
The flow cytometry community and I strongly believe that there is a need to develop guidelines and best practices to support studies with such samples. A group called ABC for PBMC is currently spearheading this project, and I’m looking forward to witnessing the unfolding of that effort.
In another workshop, a different group discussed minimum standards and best practices for longitudinal clinical flow cytometry studies, zeroing in on the quality control needed for the standardization of the instruments and the critical reagents used during flow cytometry assays. Both initiatives were community-driven, and the audience was asked for feedback. I appreciated the interactive format, and I’m glad to report that my team is aligned with the conclusions that were being drafted.
A TIGHT-KNIT CYTOMETRY COMMUNITY WITH A SHARED VISION
CYTO conferences are an annual reminder of how innovative the flow cytometry community is. We are all pushing the boundaries in terms of technology while acknowledging the importance of guidelines to ensure scientific reliability.
ALTASCIENCES’ FLOW CYTOMETRY SERVICES
Our clinical facilities at Altasciences are integrated with state-of-the-art flow cytometry laboratories. We are equipped with advanced platforms and staffed by a dedicated team of in-house experts. With our deep expertise in regulated cellular analysis, our team ensures that every step—from sample collection and processing to transport and analysis—is optimized for precision and speed.
Ready to advance your next project? Get in touch with me or one of my colleagues to see how our innovative solutions can speed up your drug development process.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MARTIN TURCOTTE
Martin Turcotte, Senior Director, Flow Cytometry, has been at Altasciences since 2023. He brings with him more than 13 years of scientific experience and a keen interest in health sciences. Following the completion of a Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the Université de Montréal, and several years in the CRO industry, he has developed extensive expertise in flow cytometry technologies.
Dr. Turcotte is always enthusiastic to share his knowledge and help Altasciences’ partners improve the quality of their drug development programs.
Connect with Martin Turcotte on LinkedIn.
This blog was originally posted in July 2025.
