In order to sort cells with magnetic beads, the Institute of Immunology has an autoMACS.

There are two basic strategies for separating specific cell populations: positive selection and depletion. During positive selection, the target cells are magnetically labeled and collected as the positive fraction. During depletion, the unwanted cells are labeled and depleted from the target cells. The target cells are collected as the negative fraction. Advantages of the machine are the high sorting speed (1x107 cells/sec) and the simultaneously gentle handling of the cells. This method is compatible to flow cytometry, as cells can be analyzed as well as sorted into further subpopulations.