Sample preparation for MS
Explore the power of mass spectrometry, a formidable tool for analyzing organic compounds, unraveling the molecular mass, and unveiling the chemical structure of analyte probes. Whether pinpointing proteins in proteomic research, uncovering genetic targets in genomics, or establishing pharmacokinetic parameters for drug discovery, our automated sample preparation elevates throughput and enhances reproducibility, ensuring superior results for your research endeavors.
Identify genetic targets by MALDI
Improve your sample preparation process with automated small volume deposition that removes the bottleneck of manual pipetting.
Achieve seamless standardization in your workflow for reliable and consistent results using the BIOSPOT® automation platform. The dispensing unit's precise calibration to your desired target volume ensures the creation of a homogeneous layer of small matrix crystals, providing the highest resolution for your mass spectra analysis. Streamline your operations for efficiency and precision in every experiment.
MALDI-qMSI
MALDI mass spectrometry imaging stands as a pivotal technology for unraveling the spatial distribution of biomarkers, metabolites, pharmaceuticals, and xenobiotics in tissue sections.
In quantitative MSI experiments, establishing a robust calibration curve is paramount for accurately estimating analyte concentrations. Implement calibrated nanoliter droplets to place varying concentrations of your standards on the targeted tissue section area. Leveraging the TOPVIEW Camera, which offers a live image and aids in pinpointing dispensing points, ensures an automated and precise deposition of droplets, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of your experiments.
Relevant literature
We have applied a state-of-the-art, multi-modal imaging platform to assess the in vivo effects of pharmacological inhibition of MERTK in mice. This involved the application of mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) to characterize the ocular spatial distribution of our highly selective MERTK inhibitor; AZ14145845, together with histopathology and transmission electron microscopy to characterize pathological and ultra-structural change in response to MERTK inhibition.
Quantitative matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI qMSI) has become a very powerful tool to reveal the spatial distribution of biomolecules and xenobiotics in tissue sections. Especially in pharmaceutical research it is increasingly used for analysis of drug and metabolite distribution as well as in pharmacodynamic biomarker research and toxicology. In this application note we describe how a reliable disposal of standards is achieved by means of the BIOSPOT® nanoliter liquid handling workstation.
We are thankful to our colleagues at NUVISAN for sharing these data and the collaboration to establish automated solutions for the qMSI workflow!
Comprehensive determination of the extent of drug transport across the region-specific blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a major challenge in preclinical studies. Multiple approaches are needed to determine the regional free (unbound) drug concentration at which a drug engages with its therapeutic target. We present an approach that merges in vivo and in vitro neuropharmacokinetic investigations with mass spectrometry imaging to quantify and visualize both the extent of unbound drug BBB transport and the post-BBB cerebral distribution of drugs at regional and subregional levels.
Clinical tissue specimens are often unscreened, and preparation of tissue sections for analysis by mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) can cause aerosolization of particles potentially carrying an infectious load. We here present a decontamination approach based on ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light to inactivate clinically relevant pathogens such as herpesviridae, papovaviridae human immunodeficiency virus, or SARS-CoV-2, which may be present in human tissue samples while preserving the biodistributions of analytes within the tissue.