Imaging Metals in Brain Tissue by Laser Ablation – Inductively Coupled Plasma – Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS)

作者： Dominic J. Hare1,2, Kai Kysenius3, Bence Paul4, Beate Knauer5,6, Robert W. Hutchinson7, Ciaran O'Connor7, Fred Fryer8, Tom P. Hennessey8, Ashley I. Bush2, Peter J. Crouch3, Philip A. Doble1 1Elemental Bio-imaging Facility,University of Technology Sydney, 2Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health,The University of Melbourne, 3Department of Pathology,The University of Melbourne, 4School of Earth Sciences,The University of Melbourne, 5Research School,Ruhr University, 6Department of Physiology,Monash University, 7ESI Ltd., Bozeman, 8Agilent Technologies, Mulgrave

简介：

Overview

This article presents a protocol for quantitatively mapping metals in mouse neurological tissue using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). This sensitive technique provides insights into metal distribution related to normal function and disease processes.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Neuroscience
• Analytical Chemistry
• Metallomics

Background

• LA-ICP-MS retains spatial information about metals, unlike traditional methods.
• Understanding metal biochemistry is crucial for disease research.
• This technique can aid in monitoring neurodegenerative diseases.
• Visual demonstrations are essential for effective protocol execution.

Purpose of Study

• To quantify the spatial distribution of metals in tissue sections.
• To address key biological questions related to metal involvement in disease.
• To enhance understanding of metal binding proteins in the brain.

Methods Used

• Preparation of brain tissue samples and standards in the laser ablation chamber.
• Setting up ICPMS software for data collection.
• Conducting laser ablation and data extraction from CSV files.
• Using quantitative image construction software for data analysis.

Main Results

• Distribution of metals like iron and zinc was mapped in mouse brain regions.
• Iron was most abundant in the midbrain and dentate gyrus.
• Zinc concentration was highest in cortical areas.
• Quantitative images provided insights into metal binding protein functionality.

Conclusions

• LA-ICP-MS is a valuable tool for studying metal distribution in neurological tissues.
• With practice, the experimental setup can be completed efficiently.
• This method has significant implications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases.

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