Imaging Mass Cytometry Technology at UHN

Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) is a high content single-cell analysis, in which fluorescent tags are replaced by isotopes that are detected by mass spectroscopy.

Images reconstructed from IMC resemble multispectral fluorescence microscopy, but without any fluorescence spillover. This allows the measurement of more than 50 analytes in a single multiplexed image. IMC is therefore an extremely powerful technique for studying complex cellular processes and interactions at the intact tissue level. It is readily applied to paraffin sections and can thus be used for a wide range of applications. Although cancer is the main focus of IMC research, the technique is a powerful approach for studying non-malignant diseases states, and basic research in areas such as developmental biology and plant science.

The IMC research core facility is located at 610 University Avenue (room 9-713). The staff has expertise in sample preparation (note: sample sections are prepared in the adjacent AMPL laboratory), instrument setup, image acquisition and storage. The facility offers a consultation service for the design of experiments, including new and under-explored applications in fields such as cell signaling networks, metabolism and clinical trials. This service includes expertise in antibody conjugation, and the design of complex antibody panels.

If you are interested in learning more about IMC and want to see if your research would benefit from the technique, contact David Hedley ( david.hedley@uhn.ca ) to discuss your experimental design and the scope of the project. For information on antibodies, including custom conjugation, scheduling, and cost estimates, contact May Cheung ( may.cheung@uhnresearch.ca ; laboratory 416-946-4501 x4921).