The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc.

Brandeis University

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Nathalie Y R Agar

Jeffrey N Agar

J Christopher Love

Denis Loginov

Systems and methods for single cell culture and analysis by microscopy and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry are disclosed. The systems and methods isolate a plurality of cells in a plurality of wells such that a predetermined number of the plurality of wells contain one and only one cell. The plurality of wells allow for optical interrogation of the cells and subsequent matrix assisted laser desorption ionizing of molecules within the cells.

Systems and methods for single cell culture and analysis by microscopy and MALDI mass spectrometry

Aspects of the present invention relate to a method for the preparation of samples for MALDI MS imaging. Certain embodiments relate to a method of matrix deposition for samples, wherein tissue sections are prepared via a synergistic combination of fixation with matrix. In certain embodiments, tissue is fixed with cold solvent, according to well-established histology protocols, and in the presence of matrix, allowing for high resolution spatial mapping of protein, lipid, sugar, and/or nucleic acid distribution. In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to fixation with matrix of whole organisms. In certain embodiments, animals are perfused with fixation and matrix mixtures, which allows for direct mass spectrometry analysis.

Tissue sample preparation, and MALDI MS imaging thereof

Tissue sample preparation and MALDI MS imaging thereof

Growing community of inventors

Newton, MA, United States of America

Nathalie Y R Agar