Abstract
As mass cytometry (MC) is implemented in clinical settings, the need for robust, validated protocols that reduce batch effects between samples becomes increasingly important. Here, we present a streamlined MC workflow for high-throughput staining that generates reproducible data for up to 80 samples in a single experiment by combining reference sample spike-in and palladium-based mass-tag cell barcoding. Although labor intensive, this workflow decreases experimental variables and thus reduces technical error and mitigates batch effects.