MALDI-TOF
MALDI-TOF (matrix assisted
laser desorption ionization – time of flight mass spectrometer) is capable of
determining the molecular weight of samples (Proteins, Peptides, DNA/Oligos, and Polymers) and is useful in the identification
of unknowns. The time of flight mass
analyzer allows for high resolution and accurate mass measurements using time
and distance to separate ions. MALDI-TOF
is also capable of measuring a Broad mass range (1000 Da
to 400,000 Da).
The Voyager-DE STR Biospectrometry Workstation is composed of five main
components: Sample Inlet, Ion Source, Mass Analyzer, Ion Detector, and a Data
System. Samples are mixed with a low
molecular weight, energy-transferring matrix.
1 ul of this mixture is spotted on to a metal
plate and allowed to crystallize. The
plate is inserted into the MALDI-TOF and energized to 20,000 volts. Then individual spots are irradiated with a
UV laser pulse. Consequently the sample
molecules become ionized and repelled into the flight tube. Located at the end of the flight tube is a
detector. Ions hit the detector at
different times depending on the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z). Lighter ions travel at faster velocities than
do heavier ions. It is this time of
flight that is converted to mass-to-charge ratio. A reflector detector is used to improve the
separation thereby improving the resolution.
MALDI-TOF is mainly used to analyze peptides from protein
digests to identify the protein. A band
or spot can be cut from a 2D gel, the protein is digested in-gel, and then cleanup up using Zip-Tips.
Recharge Rates:
|
Minimum 30 Minutes |
LA Biomed users: |
Non LA Biomed users: |
|
Unassisted |
$100/hour |
$150.00 |
Customers must provide
their own plates and reagents.
Please contact Dr. Lee@labiomed
for additional information.
Helpful Information:
Presentations:
Introduction
to Instrument and Software
Connecting Biology to Mass Spectrometry
Protocols: