Imaging Mass Cytometry Service
Our Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) service combines the precision of mass spectrometry with the spatial insights of microscopy, allowing for the visualization of over 40 biomarkers on a single tissue slide. Using metal-conjugated antibodies and laser ablation, IMC generates high-resolution, multiplexed imaging data, preserving the tissue architecture and enabling the analysis of complex cellular environments.
This technique provides a comprehensive profile of cell populations and their interactions, offering a clear view of tissue structure at the single-cell level. It is especially valuable for studying the tumor microenvironment, immune responses, and the mechanisms behind diseases. By integrating bioinformatics, IMC allows for the discovery of critical insights into disease biology and therapeutic targets, supporting cutting-edge research in cancer, immunology, and other areas.
Submit Your Request Now
×
- What is
- Platform
- How it works
- Deliverables
- End to end workflow
- Applications
- Why choose
- FAQs
- Sample preparation
What is Imaging Mass Cytometry?
Imaging Mass Cytometry is a cutting-edge bioimaging technology that overcomes the limitations of traditional fluorescence-based immunohistochemistry (IHC). Instead of using fluorophores—which often suffer from "spectral overlap" or background autofluorescence—IMC uses metal-tagged antibodies.
By detecting these stable metal isotopes via time-of-flight mass spectrometry, IMC provides high-plex imaging with virtually zero background interference, giving you a crystal-clear map of cellular interactions.
Technology Platform: Hyperion Imaging System
Our service is powered by the Standard BioTools Hyperion™ Imaging System.
- Precision Laser Ablation: A high-resolution laser scans the tissue at 1-µm resolution.
- Mass Cytometry Detection: Debris is ionized and analyzed by a CyTOF detector.
- High-Plexity: Simultaneously detect 40+ markers without the need for cycling or stripping/re-probing.
How Imaging Mass Cytometry Works
Deliverables
| Category | Specific Content |
|---|---|
| Raw Data | Original mass spectrometry files from laser ablation, scanning parameter logs |
| QC Report | Staining uniformity assessment, metal background levels, signal intensity distribution, tissue integrity evaluation |
| Spatial Images | Multi-channel pseudocolored reconstructed images (single-marker/overlaid views), brightfield reference image |
| Single-Cell Data | X/Y coordinates per cell, normalized protein expression values, cell boundary contours |
| Basic Analysis | Cell clustering results (e.g., PhenoGraph/FlowSOM labels), cell type annotation table, spatial distribution heatmaps of major populations |
| Delivery Documentation | Experimental protocol summary (antibody panel details, sample processing workflow), data usage guide |
End-to-End Service Pipeline
Key Applications
Whether you are exploring the "immune desert" in a tumor or mapping neuro-degeneration, IMC provides the resolution you need:
- Immuno-Oncology: Map immune cell infiltration and checkpoint expression within the tumor microenvironment (TME).
- Drug Discovery: Analyze pharmacodynamics and off-target effects in specific tissue niches.
- Biomarker Discovery: Identify rare cell populations that traditional flow cytometry might miss.
- Pathology Research: Visualize complex structural changes in infectious diseases or autoimmune disorders.
Why Choose Our IMC Service?
- Unrivaled Multiplexing: Stop choosing between markers. See the whole picture in one go.
- Zero Autofluorescence: Perfect for tissues like lung, liver, or skin that are notoriously difficult to image with fluorescence.
- Expert Bioinformatics: We don't just give you a picture; we provide a map. Our reports include spatial proximity analysis to show which cells are actually "talking" to each other.
- Quantitative Accuracy: Stable metal isotopes ensure linear signal detection across a high dynamic range.
- Fast Turnaround Time：Our standard turnaround time—from sample receipt to report delivery—takes only 6 to 8 weeks.
FAQs
Does IMC destroy the tissue sample?
Yes. IMC is a destructive technique. The laser ablates (vaporizes) a thin layer of the tissue to transport the material into the mass cytometer.
How many markers can I really detect at once?
While the Hyperion system has the bandwidth for over 100 channels, current metal-tag chemistry reliably supports 35 to 45 markers simultaneously. This allows you to cover all major immune lineages, activation states, and structural proteins in a single slide.
Is there a "bleed-through" or "crosstalk" issue?
Unlike fluorescence microscopy, where emission spectra overlap, IMC has minimal signal overlap (< 0.1%). This eliminates the need for complex compensation math and allows for the detection of low-abundance markers right next to high-abundance ones.
Learn about other Q&A.
Sample requirements
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Sample Format | FFPE (Blocks or pre-cut slides) |
| Slide Type | ITO glass |
| Section Thickness | Standard 4–7 µm (sections must be flat and wrinkle-free) |
| Baking | Slides should be baked at 60°C for 2 hours prior to shipping |
| Tissue Area | Maximum scan area of 15 x 15 mm recommended per slide |
Note: Please consult with our experts before preparing your samples to determine the best approach for your project.
