Single-cell multi-element analysis reveals element distribution pattern in human sperm

Chem Commun (Camb). 2023 May 9;59(38):5709-5712. doi: 10.1039/d3cc01575k.

Abstract

Multiple elements in human sperm have been demonstrated to play significant roles in the reproductive process, but their simultaneous detection in single cells remains challenging. We propose a novel analytical procedure using single-cell inductively coupled plasma-time of flight-mass spectrometry (scICP-TOF-MS) to simultaneously quantify multiple elements of individual sperm cells. A promising label-free cell identification strategy based on the endogenous element was developed to obtain valid data. The element contents exhibited varied degrees of heterogeneity in single cells. Machine learning-based analysis of the multi-dimension dataset indicated different distribution patterns and physiological roles among the simultaneously detected elements.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Spectrometry / methods
  • Semen*
  • Single-Cell Analysis
  • Spermatozoa*