AFM-optimized single-cell level LA-ICP-MS imaging for quantitative mapping of intracellular zinc concentration in immobilized human parietal cells using gelatin droplet-based calibration

This work introduces a robust and reproducible calibration strategy for quantitative elemental bioimaging using LA-ICP-MS. It details the preparation of a gelatin matrix with a homogeneous element distribution, serving as an alternative to using biological material and significantly reducing analysis time. Laser ablation parameters were optimized using AFM to ensure quantitative ablation, which is necessary for calibration through LA-ICP-MS imaging. This approach provides a powerful tool for studying trace element dynamics in single cells and holds potential for diverse biological and biomedical applications.