Mass Cytometry: Techniques and Clinical Applications

The mass spectrometry technique, based on inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and time of flight mass spectrometry, used for the determination of the properties of cells, is called mass cytometry. In this method, antibodies are coupled with isotopically pure elements and are utilized to label the cellular proteins. Cells are nebulized and passed through argon plasma, which leads to the ionization of the metal-conjugated antibodies. Time of flight mass spectrometer then analyzes the metal signals. This technique overcomes the constraints of spectral overlap in flow cytometry as it makes use of distinct isotopes as reporter system in place of traditional fluorophores which have broad emission spectra. Mass cytometry has research applications in the field of medical science that includes immunology, hematology, and oncology. It is also utilized for examining hematopoiesis, cell cycle, cytokine expression, and differential signaling responses. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of mass cytometry. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by it.