Single-Cell Elemental Analysis Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Single-cell elemental analysis using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a rapidly developing field within metallomics, offering the ability to quantify elemental contents in individual cells. Pioneering works have developed diverse sample introduction systems coupled with ICP-MS, enabling high-throughput, precise, and accurate elemental analysis at the single-cell level. These advancements have facilitated applications across medicine and biology, providing insights into elemental metabolism and toxicity. Two prominent approaches have emerged: fast time-resolved analysis of cell suspensions, applicable to a broad range of cell types (bacterial, fungal, plant, and mammalian cells), and laser ablation (LA) for generating aerosols from individual cells. LA is particularly well suited for adherent cultured cells and allows for selective analysis based on cell morphology and size. These complementary techniques provide powerful tools for elucidating the complex interplay between elements and biological systems.

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