MALDI-TOF MS Analysis Service
- Communicate with clients to confirm sample information, including concentration, purity, molecular weight range, and matrix requirements.
- Perform necessary pretreatment for different sample types (proteins, peptides, microbes, polymers, etc.) such as desalting, enrichment, enzymatic digestion, or extraction.
- Select the most suitable matrix (e.g., CHCA, DHB) based on the physicochemical properties of the analyte.
- Mix the sample with the matrix at an appropriate ratio, spot it onto the target plate, and allow it to dry.
- Use a high-end time-of-flight mass spectrometer with optimized laser intensity and experimental parameters to measure the sample.
- Record the m/z values and intensities of the ions from the mass spectrum, serving as the basis for subsequent data analysis.
- Utilize specialized mass spectrometry data processing software for background subtraction, baseline correction, and m/z calibration.
- Compare the results against protein or microbial databases for identification and annotation.
- If analyzing peptide sequences or protein modifications, carry out further sequence matching and modification site evaluation.
- Extract key information (molecular weight, fingerprint profiles, relative quantification data, etc.) from the mass spectrum.
- Organize the conclusions and relevant visual data into a final report, which clients can use for further research or applications.
- Protein Molecular Weight Measurement: Rapidly determines the actual molecular weight of proteins for comparison with theoretical values.
- Peptide Fingerprint Profiling: Used for preliminary protein identification or screening of post-translational modifications.
- Analysis of Small-Molecule Drugs and Metabolites: Detects target drugs or metabolites and determines their molecular weights.
- Analysis of Intermediates and Impurities: Monitors compound quality during synthesis or purification processes.
- Clinical Microbial Identification: Rapid identification via characteristic mass spectrometric peaks, used for pathogen screening in hospitals and disease control centers.
- Food and Environmental Safety: Detection of contaminating microbial species and strains, helping to mitigate public safety risks.
In today's life sciences, pharmaceutical, and medical diagnostics fields, proteomics and metabolomics research have become pivotal for exploring disease mechanisms, discovering novel biomarkers, and evaluating drug efficacy. With the deepening of research and ongoing technological advancements, the demand for high-throughput, highly sensitive, and highly specific analytical tools has grown increasingly urgent. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has gained widespread adoption among researchers due to its rapid, accurate, and user-friendly qualities.
As a specialized testing service provider, MtoZ Biolabs is dedicated to offering high-quality multi-omics analytical solutions to researchers worldwide. We fully understand the needs of our clients in areas such as proteins, peptides, microbial identification, polymer analysis, and drug development. Therefore, we have established our MALDI-TOF MS Analysis Service which integrates advanced instrumentation, streamlined workflows, and a highly experienced technical team, aiming to deliver efficient, precise, and customizable project support.
Technical Principles
MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry) uses matrix molecules to absorb laser energy, causing the sample molecules to desorb and ionize. These charged molecules are then analyzed by a time-of-flight mass spectrometer to determine their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z). Compared to other mass spectrometry techniques, MALDI-TOF MS offers the following advantages:
1. Simple sample preparation: The sample is mixed with the matrix, spotted onto a target plate, and dried before direct analysis.
2. Fast detection speed: Mass spectrometry analysis can be completed in seconds to minutes.
High sensitivity and specificity: Excels in the analysis of proteins, peptides, small molecules, and 3. microbial identification.
3. Wide applicability: Suitable for measuring the molecular weight of various large molecules (such as proteins and peptides) and certain small molecules (such as drugs and metabolites).
Li, D. et al. ACS Meas Sci Au. 2022.
Figure 1. MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometer
Analysis Workflow
At MtoZ Biolabs, we have established a rigorous and efficient analysis workflow for our MALDI-TOF MS Analysis Service to ensure accurate and reproducible data. The typical steps are as follows:
1. Sample Reception and Pretreatment
2. Matrix Selection and Preparation
3. Mass Spectrometry Detection
4. Data Analysis and Result Interpretation
5. Results Compilation and Reporting
Service Advantages
1. Advanced Instrumentation
MtoZ Biolabs is equipped with high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometers from leading brands to ensure experimental sensitivity and accuracy. We select the optimal model and parameters based on specific analytical needs, maximizing detection efficiency.
2. Professional Technical Team
Our team comprises experts with backgrounds in multi-omics, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry, well-versed in proteomics, microbial identification, metabolomics, and other fields. They offer effective guidance for diverse project requirements.
3. Flexible Multi-Scenario Customization
We tailor pretreatment methods and experimental parameters for various sample types (proteins, peptides, microbes, or complex mixtures) to ensure reliable results.
4. Efficient Data Management and Reporting
We utilize a comprehensive Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to oversee the entire project workflow. At the end of the experiment, we provide clear mass spectra, database matching results, and key insights, saving time for clients in data interpretation.
5. Quality Control and Standardization
Each batch is subjected to strict QA/QC measures, including external standards, instrument calibration, and repeatability tests, ensuring the trustworthiness of data.
Applications
1. Protein and Peptide Analysis
2. Pharmaceutical R&D and Quality Monitoring
3. Protein Modification Research
Phosphorylation, Glycosylation, and Other Modifications: Enzymatic digestion coupled with mass spectrometry can identify and characterize modification sites, facilitating studies on biological mechanisms.
4. Microbial Identification and Typing
Case Study
1. MALDI-TOF-MS for Rapid Screening Analysis of M-protein in Serum
This study introduces a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry-based method for rapid screening and typing of monoclonal immunoglobulin (M-protein) in human serum, a biomarker critical for diagnosing plasma cell dyscrasias. Unlike traditional methods such as serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation electrophoresis, which suffer limitations in sensitivity and resolution, the proposed technique efficiently leverages distinctive mass signatures of immunoglobulin isotypes. The developed approach offers significant advantages, including rapid analysis, high throughput, and superior analytical performance, presenting an alternative diagnostic tool for clinical settings. MALDI-TOF MS Analysis Service utilizes MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for efficient and accurate detection and characterization of target proteins, including serum biomarkers. The method is rapid, simple, and features high analytical performance and throughput, making it suitable for diverse clinical and biological research applications.
Li, J. et al. Front Oncol. 2022.
Figure 2. Mass Spectra from Patient Serum Samples
2. Rapid Identification of Bacterial Mixtures in Urine Using MALDI-TOF MS-based Algorithm Profiling Coupled with Magnetic Enrichment
This study presents a rapid method for identifying bacterial mixtures in urine by integrating a MALDI-TOF MS-based algorithm with magnetic enrichment. Using Fc-MBL@Fe3O4 for swift bacterial enrichment and a characteristic peak similarity model, the approach enables simultaneous identification of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa within 30 minutes, providing an efficient pathway for clinical pathogen detection in urinary tract infections. MALDI-TOF MS Analysis Service combines magnetic enrichment with MALDI-TOF MS to facilitate rapid and accurate pathogen detection and identification, offering high-throughput and versatile microbial analysis for both clinical and research applications.
Ashfaq, MY. et al. J Environ Manage. 2022.
Figure 3. MALDI-TOF MS Identification of Single E. coli
FAQ
Q1. Does the sample require special handling?
A: Typically, salts and other impurities must be removed prior to MALDI-TOF MS analysis. Our team will provide specific pretreatment recommendations depending on the sample type and project objectives to ensure accurate and repeatable results.
Q2. What is the difference between MALDI-TOF MS and LC-MS/MS?
A: MALDI-TOF MS is often used for rapid molecular weight measurement and fingerprint profiling, offering simple sample preparation and high detection efficiency. LC-MS/MS is better suited for quantitative analysis of complex samples and high-resolution separation. The choice depends on the research goals.
Q3. What information is included in the report?
A: We provide the mass spectrum, molecular weight measurement data, database matching results (if applicable), and detailed testing conditions, along with interpretive comments to facilitate further use or publication.
Q4. How long does a project usually take?
A: Most standard projects can be completed within one to two weeks. The timeframe may be extended for larger sample sets or customized requests. We will confirm an estimated timeline with you before starting the project and maintain regular communication throughout.
MALDI-TOF MS is a vital analytical approach in proteomics and microbiology, offering efficient support for molecular weight measurement, structural identification, and rapid microbial characterization. With extensive technical expertise in multi-omics, MtoZ Biolabs is equipped with state-of-the-art mass spectrometers and a professional team to provide high-quality MALDI-TOF MS Analysis Service to research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and related industries. If you have any questions or needs regarding MALDI-TOF MS analysis or other multi-omics services, please feel free to contact MtoZ Biolabs. We are committed to delivering comprehensive technical support and efficient solutions to advance your research.
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