Customer Reviews

Practical Flow Cytometry

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This book is quite possibly the most comprehensive reference book on flow cytometry available. Every aspect of a modern cytometer is covered in depth, including the underlying physics and all their practical consequences to the functioning of the machine. While the incredible wealth of information may make this book unsuitable as an introductory manual to the novice, it is indispensable in any lab that uses this technique on a regular basis.

Shapiro's book tries to be everything to everyone and if there ever was a book that succeeded doing so, this is it. Fully referenced (1000's of references) like an academic paper; containing all the information and explanations, from physics principles and implementations; to chemical structures and properties; to biological models and considerations; to practical uses and applications. It also contains an historical introduction that not only adds perspective but also enormous insight into the field. The book is fairly long, and as such maybe is not the best place for absolute beginners in the field. Nonetheless, knowing as much, the author introduced a chapter that is a briefer introduction to the field, allowing beginners to gain an initial solid footing before delving deeper. Anyone who uses flow cytometry on a regular basis, and certainly anyone using flow cytometry as an important research or clinical method should have this book and read it. You can always skip the parts that might not interest you or that are less relevant. In fact, originally I intended to do so, but once you begin to read you can't stop, it's almost like a novel. The author's witty, down to earth and extremely clear prose makes it easier to follow the denser scientific parts and make plain enjoyable and funny the other parts. He even adds poetry and music, showing you what it is to get joy from science. Importantly, as you read and learn about so many fields and areas related to flow cytometry and cytometry in general, you emerge with a much broader understanding of scientific principles and whole areas of scientific knowledge that are of prime importance to any scientist. It expands your horizons and explains the connections and interplay between different disciplines. Yes, it is that good. Shapiro's book is also full with tips, short protocols, ideas and implementations that have proven to be incredibly helpful to my scientific work. The reason my review's title is '(Flow) cytometry...' is that after finishing the book you have really gained insight and knowledge on cytometry in general and not only on flow cytometry. Finally, even if not read cover to cover, this book is the definitive reference for all things (flow) cytometry, and as such has a place of honor in any biologist's library.

Skimmed it while loading samples as an undergrad researcher. From reading the intro, I guess previous editions actually showed you how to build your own flow cytometer. So for the uber-geek, older editions might be a great find. As for the newer edition, chock full of examples from peer review. Make sure you have a good background in instrumentation before picking it up.

I am a medical doctor who oversees a flow cytometry clinical laboratory. I have always heard about Shapiro's flow cytometry textbook but had never reviewed it. After having done so, I can in all good consciousness say that this is one of the most poorly written books and one of the least organized. As a result, the few useful pieces of information in it are hard to find and certainly almost impossible to follow through because of his erratic style and thought flow process. My advice to anyone looking to get a basic flow cytometry book is to look elsewhere and do not make a mistake and buy this book.

This book is still the cornerstone book in the field. The writing style is accessible and detailed. It's primary function is as a college course in between two covers, and it seconds as a reference book.

overall this is a good text if you want to learn the theory behind Flow Cytometry. This book was recommended by my cytometry instructor. However I have found other online material to be more effective for understanding, applying and analyzing flow cytometry.

"[Practical Flow Cytometry, Fourth Edition] is one of the best textbooks for graduate students interested in biomedical sciences ... if you can only have one book on flow cytometry, this has to be the one." -- J. Paul Robinson, Ph.D., Professor of Immunopharmacology and Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana

"...there is no question that this is THE reference book on flow cytometry...You need this book if you use flow cytometry. Get it!" (Doody's Electronic Journal, October 25, 2003)