Immunomagnetic cell separation is a technique whereby magnetic particles are used to isolate target cells from heterogeneous mixtures. To accomplish this, the magnetic particles are bound to specific cell surface proteins on the target cells via antibodies, enzymes, lectins, or streptavidin. The sample is then placed in an electromagnetic field that pulls on the magnetic particles, bringing the labeled cells with them. The unlabeled cells remain in the supernatant, thus creating a physical separation between target and non-target cells within the sample.