MALDI
Confident and clear molecular visualization
Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI) is a mass spectrometry (MS) imaging technology designed to provide information-rich molecular visualization data direct from samples prepared with a matrix. MALDI provides excellent spatial resolution across a wide variety of applications from small molecule to peptide and small protein applications in a well-established MS imaging approach.
With the MALDI imaging technique, the matrix coated sample (often a thin tissue section) is moved in the x,y dimensions while individual mass spectra are recorded as a laser desorbs molecules from the surface – so the distribution of many analytes of a wide range of classes can be recorded in-situ directly, all at the same time. MALDI can be paired with the complementary imaging technique, Desorption Electrospray Ionization (DESI) for full spectrum molecular imaging. As DESI requires no matrix addition, the order of analysis allows for DESI followed by matrix addition and subsequent MALDI analysis on the same sample.
MALDI is an available option for both the SYNAPT XS and the SELECT SERIES MRT.
Overview
- Visualize the molecular distribution of many analytes of a wide range of classes like peptides, glycans, lipids, and metabolites simultaneously with an established and valuable technique of laser desorption with the addition of a matrix
- With SYNAPT XS, meet molecular visualization requirements with resolution from 15 µm (with oversampling) to an average 45 µm pixel size
- With the newly designed MALDI source for the SELECT SERIES MRT, achieve lateral resolution of 15 µm without oversampling, in addition to data acquisition rates of 10 pixels per second
- Generate clearer images that facilitate differentiation of molecular features directly to correlate with anatomical tissue structures
- Follow complementary DESI imaging with subsequent MALDI imaging of the same sample for a complete picture
Recommended Use: A selection of MALDI solutions providing excellent spatial resolution across a wide variety applications using a well-established MS imaging approach.
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MALDI imaging basics
MALDI imaging uses an organic matrix, typically a small organic acid, prepared directly on the sample. During ionization, the matrix facilitates the generation of ions by transfer of energy from the laser to the sample via desorption. The process operates under an intermediate vacuum in the MALDI source.
This technique is ideal for a variety of analytes, including lipids, metabolites, sugars, and peptides. The image lateral resolution can be varied from 15 µm depending upon analytical needs.
Highest performing MS imaging with SELECT SERIES MRT
The SELECT SERIES MRT features a newly developed MALDI ion source for the highest performance MS imaging. The MALDI source on the MRT offers a significant improvement, both in terms of performance (spatial resolution, plate size, and sensitivity) as well as ease of use. The system includes many new usability features that makes routine maintenance and source switchover simpler.
With the new high-performance MALDI source for the SELECT SERIES MRT, you can rapidly image large tissue sections at high spatial resolution and mass accuracy, with improved selectivity and sensitivity. The novel source design uses a tightly focused laser beam profile, increasing signal-to-noise at high spatial resolutions and providing lateral resolution of 15 µm without oversampling, in addition to data acquisition rates of 10 pixels per second. With these features, your lab can acquire high intensity images quickly and efficiently.
SELECT SERIES MRT also boasts the SELECT SERIES MALDI ESI set-up source which enables scientists to perform instrument set-up on the mass spectrometer without having to remove the MALDI source or break vacuum. To fit simply remove the hexapole and insert the set-up ESI source. It comes in a custom case, which has been designed to house all your MALDI essential accessories.
Highly flexible routine MS imaging with SYNAPT XS
The SYNAPT XS is a flexible system which offers both MALDI and DESI XS MS imaging modalities for Full Spectrum Molecular Imaging. With a routine pixel sizing of 45 µM for MALDI analyses and 15 µM with oversampling, it provides a platform for routine MALDI analysis. The combination of MALDI and DESI XS with ion mobility, SONAR & DDA acquisition modes make the SYNAPT XS an ideal routine solution for the interrogation of complex mixtures.