Cytometry Part A: 'Mass-tag barcoding for multiplexed analysis of human synaptosomes and other anuclear events'

Mass-tag cell barcoding has increased the throughput, multiplexing, and robustness of<br> multiple cytometry approaches. Previously, we adapted mass cytometry for cells to<br> analyze synaptosome preparations (mass synaptometry or SynTOF), extending mass<br> cytometry to these smaller, anuclear particles. To improve throughput and individual<br> event resolution, we report here the application of palladium-based barcoding in human<br> synaptosomes. Up to 20 individual samples, each with a unique combinatorial barcode,<br> were pooled for labeling with an antibody cocktail. Our synaptosome protocol used six<br> palladium-based barcoding reagents, and in combination with sequential gating<br> increased the identification of presynaptic events approximately 4-fold. These same<br> parameters also efficiently resolved two other anuclear particles: human red blood cells<br> (RBCs) and platelets. The addition of palladium-based mass-tag barcoding to our<br> approach improves mass cytometry of synaptic particles.