An optimized protocol for phenotyping human granulocytes by mass cytometry

Granulocytes encompass diverse roles, from fighting off pathogens to regulating inflammatory processes in allergies. These roles are represented by distinct cellular phenotypes that we captured with mass cytometry (CyTOF). Our protocol enables simultaneous evaluation of human basophils, eosinophils, and neutrophils under homeostasis and upon immune activation by anti-Immunoglobulin E (anti-IgE) or interleukin-3 (IL-3). Granulocyte integrity and detection of protein markers were optimized so that rare granulocyte populations could be deeply characterized by single cell mass cytometry. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Vivanco Gonzalez et al. (2020).

Automated summary

This study utilized mass cytometry to capture distinct phenotypes of granulocytes, and through optimized protocols, achieved in-depth characterization of basophils, eosinophils, and neutrophils. This research is of great significance for understanding the roles of granulocytes in homeostasis and immune activation.