Single-Cell Sample Introduction System for ICP-MS
In single-cell analysis, the sample introduction system converts a continuous stream of biological cells efficiently into an aerosol of individual cells and transfers the aerosol into the Inductively Coupled Plasma of the ICP-MS for analysis. A critical aspect of the sample introduction system is the cells must remain intact and unruptured during the nebulization process to ensure each individual cell produces a single ion burst inside the plasma that can be transferred into the mass analyser of the ICP-MS for quantification.
Figure 1. Single-Cell Diagram
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| 1 |
Make up Gas Inlet |
| 2 |
MicroJet Adaptor |
| 3 |
Spray Chamber |
| 4 |
Drain |
| 5 |
Nebulizer Gas Inlet |
| 6 |
High efficiency Single-cell Nebulizer |
Conventional ICP-MS spray chambers have low transport efficiencies (typically < 5% TE) that filter out larger droplets ( > 5um) from the nebulizer aerosol. As most cell lines of interest are larger than 5um, the secondary filtering mechanism of conventional spray chamber designs rejects a high proportion of the cells from passing to the plasma. To overcome this significant deficiency the Glass Expansion spray chamber design for single cell analysis is different from conventional ICP-MS spray chambers (Figure 1).
The low volume on-axis spray chamber with the patent pending MicroJet Adaptor simultaneously provide a:
- On-axis, laminar high transmission efficiency spray chamber
- Excellent washout between samples
- High velocity sheathing gas entraining and shaping the nebulizer aerosol plume to prevent cell deposition on the spray chamber walls
Glass Expansion's single cell nebulizer with proprietary VitriCone sample channel features:
- Superb transport efficiency at low sample uptake rates (15 to 45 uL/min)
- Constant diameter, large bore sample channel minimizes blockages from sample build-up
- Rigid, precision machined thick-walled glass sample capillary gives the best analytical precision
- Inert, metal-free DC gas fittings with ratchet mechanism give reliable, reproducible leak-free Ar connections
- Easy to use, gas tight, zero dead volume sample fittings make connecting to the sample delivery system easy and reliable
Ordering Information
| Part Number |
ICP-MS SC-SIS Kits |
| KT-1155 |
Single-Cell Sample Introduction System for Agilent ® ICP-MS |
| KT-1172 |
Single Cell Sample Introduction System for Thermo ® ICP-MS |
| KT-1172 |
Single Cell Sample Introduction System for TOFWERK icpTOF |
| KT-1184 |
Single Cell Kit for the PE NexION 1000, 1100, 2000 |
Download our Single-Cell Sample Introduction System for ICP-MS Flyer
Download our High Efficiency Nebulizer for Single Cell TOF-ICP-MS Presentation Poster
