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Updated: Nov 11, 2025
08:31
Isolation and Genome Analysis of Single Virions using 'Single Virus Genomics'
Published on: May 26, 2013
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Single virus inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy analysis: A comprehensive study
1Engineering Department, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK.
Talanta
|March 28, 2021
Summary
This study adapts single particle ICP-MS (SP-ICP-MS) for identifying and counting single viruses (SV). The method uses elemental ion detection for rapid viral quantification and characterization.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biophysics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SP-ICP-MS) enables nanoparticle characterization.
- Analysis of biological entities at the single-unit level is a growing field.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt SP-ICP-MS for the identification and counting of single viruses (SV).
- To establish elemental ratios for virus characterization and quantification.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing high-resolution multi-channel sector field (MC SF) ICP-MS in SV detection mode.
- Counting master ions (C, N) and key ions (P, S) for viral analysis.
- Investigating time scan and fixed mass analysis for SARS-CoV-2 and bacteriophage T5.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated counting of 2-500 viral units within 20 seconds.
- Established N/C, P/C, and S/C molar ratios for characterizing viral species.
- Quantified the number concentration of single viruses.
Conclusions:
- SP-ICP-MS is a viable method for single virus analysis.
- High-resolution SF ICP-MS is recommended for optimal performance.
- Further optimization with anaerobic/aerobic atmospheres can enhance quadrupole ICP-MS analysis.
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