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Updated: Apr 23, 2026

Sample Preparation for Single Cell Mass Spectrometry Metabolomics Studies: Combined Cell Washing, Quenching, Drying, and Storage
Published on: September 16, 2025
Trends in single-cell analysis by use of ICP-MS
Larissa Mueller1, Heike Traub, Norbert Jakubowski
1BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, 12200, Berlin, Germany, larissa.mueller@bam.de.
This review explores recent advancements in single-cell analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and ICP optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). It highlights elemental imaging and multimodal approaches for deeper biological insights.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biomedical Science
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Single-cell analysis is crucial in toxicology, medical diagnostics, and cancer research.
- Various microscopic, mass spectrometric, and spectroscopic techniques are being developed.
- Metal atoms, whether intrinsic, uptaken, or antibody-bound, are key targets in single-cell analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent trends in single-cell analysis using ICP-MS and ICP-OES.
- To highlight the application of element-tagged antibodies for single-cell detection.
- To discuss advanced sample introduction and elemental imaging techniques.
Main Methods:
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES)
- Laser Ablation ICP-MS (LA-ICP-MS) for elemental imaging
- Pneumatic nebulization and droplet generation for sample introduction
Main Results:
- ICP-MS and ICP-OES are effective for analyzing metal atoms in single cells.
- Element-tagged antibodies offer high interest for specific cellular targeting.
- Advanced sample introduction and LA-ICP-MS enable detailed elemental mapping.
Conclusions:
- ICP-based techniques are advancing single-cell analysis capabilities.
- Multimodal spectroscopy approaches are proposed for comprehensive biological understanding.
- Further research into these methods will enhance insights into cellular processes and dynamics.
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