CyTOF XT and Hyperion XTi Training Summary
SiSP team with the trainer and BioMed Dx team
Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting a comprehensive hands-on training conducted by Mr. Boon Eng Teh from Standard BioTools. The training covered both CyTOF XT (suspension mass cytometry) and the Hyperion XTi Imaging System (imaging mass cytometry), providing valuable technical insights and operational experience across five intensive days.
CyTOF Technology Overview
CyTOF (cytometry by time-of-flight) is a cutting-edge single-cell analysis platform that allows researchers to measure over 50 markers simultaneously on millions of individual cells, using metal-tagged antibodies and mass spectrometry-based detection. This enables unprecedented resolution in understanding complex cellular systems across immunology, oncology, and infectious disease research.
The CyTOF XT system enhances the power of suspension mass cytometry by offering:
XTra Autonomy: Automated workflows free up operator time, streamlining daily tasks and boosting lab throughput.
XTra Efficiency: Features like a simplified front-end assembly, intuitive bottle tray system, and automated tuning reduce hands-on time for maintenance and calibration.
XTra Clarity: Unlike fluorescence-based flow cytometry, CyTOF offers minimal spectral overlap, resulting in clearer, more accurate data.
What is the Hyperion XTi Imaging System?
To extend these capabilities into the spatial dimension, the Hyperion XTi Imaging System integrates imaging mass cytometry with the same high-dimensional analysis principles. It allows researchers to visualize and quantify biomarker expression across tissue sections with subcellular resolution, maintaining spatial context. This is particularly transformative for studies involving tumor microenvironments, immune cell infiltration, and tissue architecture.
The Hyperion™ XTi is an advanced imaging mass cytometry platform that combines the power of mass cytometry with high-resolution tissue imaging. It allows simultaneous detection of over 40 protein markers directly on tissue sections, preserving spatial context at subcellular resolution.
Using metal-tagged antibodies and laser ablation, Hyperion XTi generates detailed, quantitative images that reveal cell types, states, and interactions within complex tissues—ideal for analyzing tumor microenvironments, immune landscapes, and tissue architecture.
Key Advantages
High multiplexing without spectral overlap
Spatially resolved, quantitative data
Minimal background and autofluorescence
Supports powerful image analysis using MCD™ Viewer and third-party tools
Hyperion XTi complements suspension CyTOF by adding spatial insight to single-cell profiling, enabling a complete view of cellular biology in health and disease.
CyTOF XT Training (Days 1–3)
Principles of Mass Cytometry and overview of the CyTOF XT system
Instrument start-up, shutdown, and tuning
Daily quality control protocols and maintenance routines
Sample acquisition, data processing, and introduction to FCS Express for data analysis
Emphasis on best practices for sample preparation and basic troubleshooting
Hyperion XTi Imaging Mass Cytometry (Days 3–5)
Key topics covered included:
Principles of Imaging Mass Cytometry™
Instrument startup, QC, and alignment
Mode switching, plasma start-up, and tuning
Sample acquisition and imaging modes
Image processing and analysis using MCD™ Viewer
Throughout the course, participants engaged in a mix of presentations and hands-on sessions designed to build confidence in instrument operation, maintenance, and data interpretation.
This training significantly strengthens our team’s capacity to run high-dimensional cytometry experiments and ensures we are ready to push forward cutting-edge single-cell and spatial biology research.
Last but not least, we appreciate the collaboration with BioMed Diagnostics Thailand. Without their support, we could not make this technology available at SiSP. Finally, we believe this is the first XTi in Southeast Asia!
