Three-dimensional micro-XRF under cryogenic conditions: a pilot experiment for spatially resolved trace analysis in biological specimens

Anal Bioanal Chem. 2007 Oct;389(4):1171-6. doi: 10.1007/s00216-007-1494-6. Epub 2007 Jul 28.

Abstract

Three-dimensional micro-XRF is a recently developed microprobe which facilitates three-dimensional resolved chemical analyses with a resolution of around 20 mum. Arbitrary sites or sections of samples can be investigated without the need to section specimens physically. In this paper we demonstrate the use of the microprobe in combination with a cold nitrogen gas stream for the cryogenic fixation of specimens. A 3D micro-XRF setup at the new microfocus beamline at BESSY II was equipped with a nitrogen cryogenic stream. The distribution of Ca, Fe, Zn and Cu across virtual cross sections of a water-rich sample, the root of common duckweed, could be investigated without further sample preparation. This paper demonstrates the capabilities of 3D micro-XRF under cryogenic conditions for investigations of biological specimens.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Araceae / chemistry
  • Calcium / analysis
  • Cold Temperature
  • Copper / analysis
  • Cryopreservation / methods*
  • Iron / analysis
  • Pilot Projects
  • Plant Roots / chemistry*
  • Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission / instrumentation
  • Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission / methods
  • Trace Elements / analysis*
  • Zinc / analysis

Substances

  • Trace Elements
  • Copper
  • Iron
  • Zinc
  • Calcium