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A Spiral-Helix (3D) Tubing Array That Ensures Ultrahigh-Throughput Single-Cell Sampling
Xing Wei1, Xuan Zhang1, Rui Guo1
1Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences , Northeastern University , Shenyang , Liaoning 110819 , P.R. China.
Analytical Chemistry
|November 15, 2019
Summary
This study introduces an ultrahigh-throughput single-cell sampling system for Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). This innovation enables comprehensive statistical analysis of elemental species at the single-cell level, revealing subtle cellular differences.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biotechnology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is crucial for elemental analysis at the single-cell level.
- High throughput, efficiency, and precision are essential for statistically significant single-cell data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an ultrahigh-throughput system for single-cell sampling.
- To enhance the efficiency and precision of single-cell elemental analysis using ICP-MS.
Main Methods:
- A 3D spiral-helix tubing array was designed to focus single cells using inertial lift and Dean drag forces.
- A laboratory-made nebulization device was integrated for improved cell measurement efficiency.
- Analysis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in K562 cells was performed.
Main Results:
- The system achieved an ultrahigh single-cell sampling rate of 40,000 cells/min.
- A cell measurement efficiency of 42.1 ± 7.2% was obtained in ICP-MS assays.
- Observed significant diversification of AuNPs within individual living cells.
Conclusions:
- The developed system significantly enhances throughput and efficiency for single-cell ICP-MS.
- Enables comprehensive statistical analysis and interpretation of subtle cellular elemental variations.
- Opens new avenues for understanding cellular heterogeneity in elemental composition.
