Mass spectrometry (often abbreviated as mass spec) is a powerful analytical technique used to determine the mass of molecules in a sample. A mass spectrometer is the instrument used to perform this measurement, making it an indispensable tool in scientific research and industry.
The first mass spectrometer was built in 1912 by J.J. Thomson. Originally called a parabola spectrograph, it provided definitive evidence of nonradioactive isotopes. Over the years, mass spectrometry has evolved and become a key technique used in nearly every scientific field, contributing to significant breakthroughs in areas such as proteomics, environmental science, drug development, anad more.
A mass spectrometer is any device that produces a mass spectrum, which is a visual output of the individual mass spectra of molecules in a sample. Since Thomson’s early version, numerous types of mass spectrometers have been developed to address a wide range of research needs.
Today, mass spectrometers are commonly used in life science research to analyze proteins, peptides, and amino acids. They play a crucial role in applications such as DNA sequencing, environmental analysis, and forensic investigations. Mass spectrometry is also widely used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and even cosmetics.
Mass spectrometers measure the speed at which positively charged ions move through a vacuum chamber toward a negatively charged plate. The speed of these ions is determined by their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z), enabling scientists to analyze the molecular composition of a sample.
For instance, using mass spectrometry, researchers can analyze blood samples for signs of lead poisoning or test water sources for chemical contaminants. The versatility and precision of this analytical technique make it one of the most widely used instruments in labs around the world.
Despite the variations in mass spectrometry methods, the basic components of a mass spectrometer include:
The sample is first vaporized or combined with a matrix material. Using electrospray ionization (ESI), chemical ionization, or an electric field, the sample molecules are ionized into charged particles.
The ionized particles are then accelerated through the vacuum chamber toward the negatively charged plate (also called the electron multiplier). The magnetic field deflects the ions based on their mass and charge. Lighter ions are deflected more than heavier ones, allowing them to be separated for detection.
As the ions reach the detector, the mass analyzer measures their speed and relative abundance to generate a mass spectrum. By comparing the mass spectrum to known substances, researchers can determine the composition of the sample.
Mass spectrometry has a wide range of applications across many industries. Here are a few examples of how it's used:
There are many types of mass spectrometers, each suited for specific applications. Below are some of the most common:
LC-MS combines liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Liquid chromatography separates the components of a mixture, and mass spectrometry analyzes each component’s molecular weight. This combination is ideal for analyzing organic and inorganic compounds in fields like food safety, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.
GC-MS combines gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Gas chromatography separates volatile compounds such as fatty acids and alcohols, and mass spectrometry measures the molecular weight. It’s widely used in environmental testing and forensic analysis.
A triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (TQMS) uses two quadrupole mass analyzers separated by a collision cell. This setup improves the sensitivity and accuracy of mass measurements, making it ideal for drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and environmental studies.
MALDI-TOF MS is used to analyze large molecules like proteins and polymers without breaking them down. A sample is mixed with a matrix and hit with a laser, causing the molecules to ionize. The ions are then accelerated into a Time-of-Flight (TOF) analyzer, which measures their mass-to-charge ratios based on how fast they travel through the vacuum.
The field of mass spectrometry continues to evolve with new technologies emerging every year. High-resolution mass spectrometry and ion mobility spectrometry are among the latest advancements, offering increased accuracy and the ability to explore more complex biological systems. These innovations are revolutionizing research, particularly in proteomics and biomarker discovery, allowing for more detailed and precise molecular analysis.
Staying ahead of these advancements is crucial for cutting-edge research, and leasing equipment ensures that your lab is equipped with the latest tools as technology evolves.
To ensure accurate results, mass spectrometers must be properly maintained and calibrated regularly. Routine calibration checks ensure the instrument measures ions accurately, while regular cleaning of ion sources and detectors prevents contamination.
Leasing with Excedr includes maintenance and calibration services, so you don’t have to worry about costly downtime or repairs. This ensures your equipment remains in peak condition, providing consistent and reliable results.
Different models of mass spectrometers offer varying capabilities. For example, Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Q Exactive HF-X excels at high-resolution measurements, making it ideal for proteomics. On the other hand, Agilent’s 7700x ICP-MS is a go-to for trace elemental analysis, particularly in environmental testing.
Leasing gives labs the flexibility to try different models and find the instrument that best fits their specific needs.
Mass spectrometers vary widely in price, from under $10,000 for basic models to nearly $100,000 for high-end units. For labs with limited budgets, leasing offers a practical solution to acquiring this essential piece of equipment.
Leasing a mass spectrometer allows you to spread the cost over time, making it easier to access the latest technology without a large upfront investment. Leasing also typically includes maintenance and servicing, ensuring your equipment stays in peak condition. Additionally, leasing gives you the flexibility to upgrade as newer models become available, keeping your lab up to date with the latest advancements in mass spectrometry.
In a rapidly advancing field like mass spectrometry, staying on the cutting edge is essential. Leasing allows you to adapt as new technologies emerge, ensuring your lab isn’t stuck with outdated equipment. As scientific research evolves, so do instrumentation needs. By leasing, you have the flexibility to upgrade to more advanced mass spectrometers that meet your lab’s changing demands, all while managing costs effectively.
At Excedr, we offer leasing solutions for a wide range of mass spectrometers, ensuring you can equip your lab with the most advanced tools without straining your budget. Learn more about our leasing program and how it can help your lab succeed.
