Multiplexed imaging of tissues using mass tags and secondary ion mass spectrometry

Abstract

A method of generating a high resolution two-dimensional image of a sample comprising cells and extracellular structures is provided. In certain embodiments, the method comprises: labeling a sample with at least one mass tag, thereby producing a labeled sample; scanning the sample with a secondary ion mass spectrometer (SIMS) ion beam to generate a data set that comprises spatially-addressable measurements of the abundance of the mass tag across an area of the sample; and outputting the data set. In many embodiments, the data set contains the identity and abundance of the mass tag. A system for performing the method is also provided.

1 . A method of generating a high resolution two-dimensional image of a sample comprising cells and extracellular structures, the method comprising:
 labeling a sample with at least one mass tag, thereby producing a labeled sample in which a biological feature of interest is bound to said at least one mass tag;   scanning the sample with a secondary ion mass spectrometer (SIMS) ion beam to generate a data set that comprises spatially-addressable measurements of the abundance of said at least one mass tag across an area of said sample; and   outputting the data set.   
     
     
         2 .- 24 . (canceled)