Flow Cytometry and High-Content Imaging to Identify Markers of Monocyte-Macrophage Differentiation

The identification and characterization of cell surface markers present on different subtypes of cells of the immune system can broaden the understanding of immune cell function. The BD LyoplateTM human cell surface marker screening panel is a collection of cell surface marker antibodies designed for screening cells for the expression of 242 human cell surface proteins by flow cytometry or fluorescence imaging. Using a human monocytic cell line, THP-1, undifferentiated (suspension) THP-1 cells were screened for surface marker expression using a BD FACSCantoTM II flow cytometer. Differentiated (adherent) THP-1 macrophages were screened using a BD PathwayTM high-content imaging system. The analysis of results from both proof-of-principle screening experiments identified 21 markers expressed on both THP-1 monocytes and macrophages, 23 markers uniquely expressed on THP-1 monocytes, and 20 markers uniquely expressed on THP-1 macrophages.