Signal Amplification for Imaging Mass Cytometry

An enzyme-catalyzed reporter deposition stain has been developed for Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC). The reagent consists of an alkaline phosphatase substrate tethered to a tellurophene which serves as reporter group for mass cytometry. Upon phosphate hydrolysis, a quinone methide is released which covalently labels local nucleophiles. This strategy is a useful complement to heavy isotope antibody conjugates as it facilitates signal amplification for low-abundance biomarker detection. The workflow is conveniently integrated with standard IMC antibody staining to allow multiparametric antigen detection.