What will typically cause noise in cytometric measurements?

The presence of small particles and debris in samples is a common source of noise in cytometric measurements. When samples contain extraneous materials, such as cell debris, clumps, or other small particles, these can scatter the light used in flow cytometry, leading to signals that interfere with the accurate detection and analysis of the target cells or particles. This scattering can create background noise that complicates the interpretation of results, making it difficult to distinguish between actual signals from the target analytes and the noise generated by the impurities. Therefore, ensuring sample purity and minimizing debris is crucial for achieving reliable and high-quality cytometric data.