New Flow-Based Multiplex Assays for Simultaneous Quantification of 13 Human or Mouse Macrophage/Microglia Related Cytokines

Immune responses are mediated by innate immune cells (e.g., macrophages) and subsequently, adaptive immune cells (e.g., T and B cells). Macrophages secrete an array of inflammatory mediators to affect their host defense, tissue repair, and immunoregulatory functions. Pro-inflammatory macrophages (M1) produce cytokines, such as IL-12p70, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-12p40, IL-18, IL-23, IFN-γ, and IP-10, while anti-inflammatory and tissue repairing macrophages (M2) release a different set of factors, such as IL-4, IL-10, IL-6, Arginase, TARC, MDC, IL-1RA and TGF-β1. We have developed new assay panels targeting human or mouse macrophage/microglia cells, using fluorescence–encoded beads that are suitable for use on commonly available flow cytometers. Each panel allows for the simultaneous quantification of 13 analytes related to macrophage function in humans and mice. These panels have been validated using biological samples to quantify analyte concentration changes in response to various stimuli. These high quality, low cost, easy-to-use panels provide an alternative multiplex solution to the biomedical research community.