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Mass spectrometry-based Imaging and Cytometry (MIC)

 

Mass‑spectrometry–based spatial omics enable the visualization and quantitative analysis of the spatial distribution of proteins, metabolites, lipids, and other biomolecules directly within intact tissues.

These technologies can be distinguished by the level of prior molecular knowledge required and the intended analytical objective (discovery vs. targeted analysis).

Unbiased molecular discovery using label‑free approaches does not require prior knowledge of the target molecules. They can identify a wide range of proteins, metabolites, and lipids on a single platform

Targeted analysis using labeling‑based approaches, by contrast, use predefined probes, tags, or metal‑conjugated antibodies to selectively quantify known targets, offering higher sensitivity and specificity for molecules of interest while enabling multiplexed, spatially resolved measurements.

CMMI has recently launched its spatial omics and molecular imaging activities with the acquisition of an imaging mass cytometer and an imaging mass spectrometer, which will enable both targeted and untargeted quantification of proteins, metabolites, and lipids.

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Mass Cytometry (CyTOF) and Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC)

CyTOF technology is one of the most advanced single cell technologies that enables deep phenotypic characterization and functional profiling of millions of individual cells with more than 40 markers/cell analyzed simultaneously. IMC, powered by laser ablation coupled to CyTOF detection, is one of the most advanced spatial proteomics technologies, enabling highly multiplexed imaging of tissues with simultaneous detection of more than 30 protein markers at subcellular resolution.


Services

Panel design:

  • Antibody selection
  • Metal tag selection and conjugation
  • Antibody testing and titration
  • Panel testing and optimization tailored to the specific sample types of interest

Sample acquisition:

  • Sample QC
  • Sample processing
  • Sample stainingSample acquisition

Data interpretation and analysis:

  • QC
  • Preliminary Data analysis support


Equipment

CyTOF XTi

CyTOF XTi, (Hyperion XTi Imaging System): A Cytometer by time of flight with high multiplexing imaging capabilities. The CyTOF XTi is an imaging mass cytometry device that enables high multiplexed imaging on tissue sections. It uses metal‑conjugated antibodies and laser ablation to simultaneously measure 30+ markers at subcellular resolution, while preserving their Spatial context. This allows mapping tissue microenvironments, immune cell infiltration, and cellular interactions with exceptionally clear signals.

DESI-MRT-MS Imaging

DESI-MRT-MS imaging, powered by the SELECT SERIES MRT platform (Waters), is an advanced ambient mass spectrometry technology enabling label-free, spatially resolved molecular analysis directly from tissue sections with minimal sample preparation. This approach supports untargeted and targeted imaging of a broad range of biomolecules, including lipids, metabolites, drugs, and other exogenous compounds, while preserving tissue morphology and spatial context.

DESI-MRT-MS is particularly suited for spatial metabolomics and lipidomics applications, enabling molecular profiling and localization in biological tissues for biomarker discovery, tissue phenotyping, drug distribution studies, and translational research on both frozen and FFPE tissue sections.


Services

Method development:

  • Experimental design tailored to sample type and analytical objectives
  • Optimization of DESI acquisition parameters
  • Spatial resolution adjustment according to tissue requirements
  • Method validation for targeted or untargeted workflows

Sample acquisition:

  • Sample QC and preparation guidance
  • Tissue section compatibility assessment
  • DESI imaging acquisition on biological samples
  • High-resolution molecular map generation

Data interpretation and analysis:

  • Raw data QC
  • Molecular annotation and compound identification support
  • Targeted molecular confirmation by MS/MS fragmentation analysis
  • Ion image reconstruction and visualization
  • Statistical and multivariate spatial analysis support


Equipment

SELECT SERIES MRT

The SELECT SERIES MRT is an ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometer based on Multi-Reflecting Time-of-Flight technology, delivering exceptional mass accuracy and resolving power. Coupled with DESI ionization, it enables ambient imaging of tissue samples without matrix application or extensive preprocessing.

 This system provides:

  • Label-free molecular imaging directly from tissue surfaces
  • High mass resolution for complex molecular mixtures
  • Accurate spatial localization of metabolites, lipids, and xenobiotics
  • Rapid analysis compatible with translational and clinical research workflows

WATTIEZ Ruddy, Pr

Academic supervisor

LOURETTE Natacha, PhD

Scientist

SHEHADE Hussein, PhD

Scientist