Mass Spectrometers

Mass spectrometers are highly versatile analytical tools that detect and measure ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio, enabling the identification and quantification of chemical compounds. Mass spectrometry ionizes chemical compounds to generate charged particles. These ions are then accelerated and separated according to their mass-to-charge ratios in an electric or magnetic field. The detector measures the abundance of each ion, producing a spectrum that reveals the identity and quantity of the compounds present. This process allows precise analysis of complex mixtures at very low concentrations. Mass spectrometry is frequently integrated with separation methods like GC-MS and LC-MS.read more

Innovations such as tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and high-resolution systems in mass spectrometry labs improve precision and sensitivity, establishing them as essential instruments across scientific research and industrial fields.

Essential Features

  • Compact single quadrupole mass spectrometry systems pair ambient ionization with an atmospheric pressure solids analysis probe to provide fast, real-time analysis of liquids and solids in as little as 30 seconds. They need little to no sample preparation, eliminate the need for chromatography, and require minimal training. As a result, they offer laboratories an affordable, user-friendly solution for obtaining reliable data, simplifying workflows, and accelerating turnaround times.
  • Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging allows detailed, high-resolution molecular visualization directly from tissue or other matrix-coated samples. It enables simultaneous spatial mapping of a wide range of analytes, including peptides, lipids, glycans, and metabolites, with high mass accuracy and minimal oversampling. MALDI also integrates well with complementary methods such as DESI, delivering comprehensive full-spectrum molecular imaging.
  • Time-of-flight mass spectrometers use two detectors: a linear detector located at the end of the flight tube and a reflector detector that captures ions redirected by the reflectron. The reflectron not only compensates for differences in the initial kinetic energy of ions with identical mass, avoiding shifts in their measured m/z, but also lengthens the ion flight path, which improves resolution.
  • The electrospray ionization mass spectrometer delivers exceptional sensitivity for trace-level detection, dependable performance, and high-throughput capacity, all in a compact system equipped with user-friendly software that simplifies complex analytical workflows.
  • Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry allows concurrent measurement of all five argon isotopes, delivering outstanding sensitivity, cutting-edge detection capabilities, and remarkable precision for noble gas isotope ratio studies. Its compact build, combined with advanced emission suppression, amplifier innovations, and fully integrated software, ensures superior stability, versatility, and control across diverse applications.
  • Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry provides excellent sensitivity while reducing molecular interferences through a refined collision cell design and optimized ion path geometry. It also features advanced method development and diagnostic tools, a cost-effective plasma system, and user-friendly interfaces and sample introduction components for reliable and efficient trace element analysis.

Common Mass Spectrometry Applications

  • Proteomics: Proteomics relies on mass spectrometers to analyze protein structure, activity, and interactions in biological systems. This approach supports a deeper understanding of disease mechanisms and contributes to the development of precision-based therapeutic strategies.
  • Metabolomics: The mass spectrometry machine is employed for cancer screening and diagnosis, global metabolic fingerprinting, biomarker discovery and profiling, biofuel research, lipidomics investigations, and the analysis of metabolic disorders.
  • Pharmaceutical field: An important application of mass spectrometry is in research and development. It supports drug discovery by examining metabolites, evaluating purity, and investigating pharmacokinetics to confirm both the safety and effectiveness of new therapies.
  • Forensic science: Mass spectrometry serves as an essential technique for detecting unknown compounds at crime scenes, analyzing biological samples for drugs or toxins, and generating critical evidence to support criminal investigations.
  • Environmental analysis: Mass spectrometry analysis is applied for testing drinking water, screening and quantifying pesticides, evaluating soil contamination, monitoring carbon dioxide and other pollutants, and performing trace elemental analysis of heavy metal leaching.
  • Geochemistry: In geochemistry, mass spectrometry is applied for age dating, analyzing soil and rock composition, and conducting oil and gas exploration.
  • Genomics: The technique is applied in genomic studies for mass analysis of nucleic acids, proteins, and peptides, with techniques like MALDI enabling rapid ionization-based separation and fast, accurate detection. It also facilitates DNA sequencing, distinguishes short oligonucleotides without gel electrophoresis, and precisely identifies numerous SNPs across the genome.
  • Emerging applications: Mass spectrometry is used in medicine, finding applications in many areas, including the analysis of cerebrospinal fluid proteins linked to aging, the study of key proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases, the detection of antimicrobial resistance using MALDI-TOF and LC-ESI-MS/MS, and the identification of biomarkers for cancer diagnosis through MS imaging. Beyond these, it is also being applied in pain management, transplant medicine, nutrition, and the diagnosis of conditions such as osteoarthritis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which factors influence the cost of a mass spectrometry system (brand, type, detection range)?
The cost of a mass spectrometry system depends on factors such as the brand, model type (e.g., single quadrupole, TOF, Orbitrap), and detection range or resolution. Additional features like automation, sensitivity, and software integration also significantly influence pricing.
Which global brands manufacture mass spec machines for research and clinical applications?
Leading global manufacturers of mass spectrometry systems include Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bruker, Agilent Technologies, SCIEX, Shimadzu, and Waters. These brands supply instruments for both research and clinical applications worldwide.
Are entry-level mass spectrometry machines available for academic labs or teaching purposes?
Yes, entry-level mass spectrometry systems are available for academic labs and teaching purposes. They are designed to be cost-effective, easy to operate, and suitable for basic training and demonstration.
Can I compare multiple mass spectrometry machines side by side before making a purchase decision?
Many vendors and distributors provide comparison tools to evaluate different mass spectrometry models side by side. This helps users assess specifications, features, and costs before making a purchase decision.
Where can I buy mass spectrometers online and request a direct quote?
Mass spectrometers can be purchased online through official manufacturer websites, authorized distributors, and scientific equipment suppliers. Most platforms allow you to request a direct quote tailored to your specific requirements.