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Imaging Metals in Brain Tissue by Laser Ablation - Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS)
Published on: January 22, 2017
Laser ablation ICP-MS for quantitative biomedical applications
Ioana Konz1, Beatriz Fernández, M Luisa Fernández
1Department of Physical and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain.
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|May 1, 2012
Summary
Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) offers precise, rapid elemental analysis in biological research. This review highlights its advancements and applications, particularly for elemental imaging in tissues and protein analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Research
- Analytical Chemistry
- Life Sciences
Background:
- Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a powerful technique for elemental and isotopic analysis.
- Its application in biological and medical research has rapidly expanded.
- LA-ICP-MS complements traditional organic mass spectrometry methods in life sciences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent developments in LA-ICP-MS.
- To highlight key applications of LA-ICP-MS in biomedical research.
- To emphasize quantitative elemental imaging and protein analysis.
Main Methods:
- Spatially resolved elemental and isotope ratio measurements using LA-ICP-MS.
- Minimal sample preparation required for trace and ultratrace analysis.
- Application to biological tissues, gel electrophoresis separated proteins, and labelled proteins.
Main Results:
- LA-ICP-MS provides precise, fast, and spatially resolved elemental data.
- Successful quantitative elemental imaging in biological tissues.
- Analysis of heteroatom-tagged proteins and proteins requiring labeling strategies.
Conclusions:
- LA-ICP-MS is a valuable tool for elemental analysis in life sciences.
- The technique enables detailed investigation of elemental distribution in biological systems.
- Advancements in LA-ICP-MS facilitate novel applications in biomedical research.
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