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Sample Preparation for Single Cell Mass Spectrometry Metabolomics Studies: Combined Cell Washing, Quenching, Drying, and Storage
Published on: September 16, 2025
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Advances in mass spectrometry based single-cell metabolomics
Kyle D Duncan1, Jonas Fyrestam, Ingela Lanekoff
1Department of Chemistry - BMC, Uppsala University, Sweden. Ingela.Lanekoff@kemi.uu.se.
The Analyst
|November 15, 2018
Summary
Single-cell metabolomics uses mass spectrometry to analyze metabolites in individual cells, revealing metabolic differences and heterogeneity. This review covers recent advances and challenges in this rapidly developing field.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Metabolomics aids understanding of biological processes in health and disease.
- Single cells exhibit metabolic heterogeneity, impacting cellular function.
- Analyzing single-cell metabolism is crucial for understanding phenotypic variation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in mass spectrometry-based single-cell metabolomics.
- To highlight the state-of-the-art in the last three years.
- To identify challenges and future directions for the field.
Main Methods:
- Mass spectrometry enables label-free detection and simultaneous analysis of numerous metabolites.
- Single-cell metabolomics techniques are employed to analyze low-volume samples.
- Recent advancements focus on improving sensitivity and throughput.
Main Results:
- Mass spectrometry-based approaches are advancing single-cell metabolomics.
- Significant progress has been made in analyzing metabolite profiles from individual cells.
- The field is rapidly evolving with new technologies and methodologies.
Conclusions:
- Mass spectrometry is a powerful tool for single-cell metabolomics.
- Further development is needed to overcome challenges related to sensitivity and sample volume.
- Advancements in single-cell metabolomics will enhance understanding of cellular heterogeneity and disease.
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