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Updated: Apr 1, 2026
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Single-cell Analysis of Immunophenotype and Cytokine Production in Peripheral Whole Blood via Mass Cytometry
Published on: June 26, 2018
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Multiparameter Phenotyping of Human PBMCs Using Mass Cytometry.
Michael D Leipold1, Evan W Newell2, Holden T Maecker3
1Institute for Immunity, Transplantation, and Infection, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|October 1, 2015
Summary
Mass cytometry offers deeper single-cell analysis than fluorescence flow cytometry by using metal ions for more markers. This review guides adapting flow cytometry panels for mass cytometry, including protocols for cell surface and intracellular cytokine staining.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Fluorescence flow cytometry has been the standard for single-cell analysis.
- Mass cytometry is an emerging technology utilizing heavy metal ions for labeling.
- Mass cytometry enables simultaneous probing of a greater number of cellular markers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review considerations for adapting fluorescence flow cytometry panels to mass cytometry.
- To provide a protocol for mass cytometry analysis.
- To present representative panels for surface phenotyping and intracellular cytokine staining (ICS) assays.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing heavy metal ions as labels for antibodies and probes.
- Quantifying probe binding via mass spectrometry.
- Adapting existing fluorescence flow cytometry panels for mass cytometry.
Main Results:
- Mass cytometry significantly expands the number of simultaneously measurable phenotypic and functional markers.
- A protocol for surface phenotyping and ICS assays using mass cytometry is presented.
- Representative panels for both assay types are provided.
Conclusions:
- Mass cytometry represents a powerful advancement for high-parameter single-cell analysis.
- The provided guidance and protocols facilitate the transition from flow cytometry to mass cytometry.
- This technology enhances the ability to dissect complex cellular phenotypes and functions.
