Linear variable optical filter systems for flow cytometry and methods for using the same

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure include systems for detecting light from a particle in a flow stream by spectral discrimination. Light detection systems according to certain embodiments include a wavelength separator component configured to propagate light between a first set of linear variable optical filters and a second set of linear variable optical filters where each set of linear variable optical filters is configured to pass light having predetermined sub-spectral ranges and a plurality of photodetectors positioned to detect light from each sub-spectral range across the linear variable optical filters. Systems having a light source for irradiating a particle in a flow stream and a photodetector modulator component for binning data signals generated in a plurality of photodetector channels of the light detection system are also described. Methods for detecting light with the subject systems and kits having one or more components for detecting light according to the subject methods are also provided.