Mass Cytometry

When performing mass cytometry experiments, the first step is sample preparation where cells are stained with antibodies conjugated to metal isotopes. The stained cells are then introduced into an inductively coupled plasma (ICP), where they are ionized. Next, the ions are separated and quantified based on their mass-to-charge ratio using time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Finally, the resulting data is analyzed to determine the abundance of each metal isotope corresponding to the presence of specific cell surface or intracellular markers.

Benefits of mass cytometry include its multiplexing capability allowing for the analysis of many markers simultaneously without significant spectral overlap. It can provide deep insights into cellular functions and interactions, and it yields enhanced data quality with higher resolution and less background noise than traditional flow cytometry. You will most often find mass cytometry in an institution’s core facility; where they perform assay services or purchase instruments for clients to use.