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Princeton University Selects Thermo Scientific MALDI LTQ Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer

14 Aug 2008
Greg Smith
Analyst / Analytical Chemist

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Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., the world leader in serving science, today announced that Princeton University is utilizing the newly launched MALDI LTQ Orbitrap XL mass spectrometer for research on virus-host protein interactions in the laboratory of Ileana Cristea, Ph.D. Dr. Cristea's cutting-edge work on chromatin and its modulation by viruses promises to further scientists' understanding about how viruses manipulate their host to their advantage. The laboratory employs a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating methodologies from modern proteomics, biochemistry, molecular biology and virology. The research, while preliminary, holds implications for improved therapies for the treatment of viral infections, from the common cold to HIV.

Because the samples required for the studies are difficult to obtain and the elements of interest are frequently present at very low levels, Dr. Cristea began exploring the benefits of combining MALDI with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry (MS) instrumentation. Interested in novel MS developments, she believed there would be significant benefit with the integration of the Thermo Scientific LTQ Orbitrap with a MALDI interface.

"I am quite impressed that I have in my laboratory the first configuration of its kind in the MALDI LTQ Orbitrap XL," said Dr. Cristea, Assistant Professor with Princeton University's Department of Molecular Biology. "Its performance has already proven to be terrific. This instrument combines the robustness and high throughput capabilities of MALDI with the sensitivity of the linear trap and the high mass accuracy and resolution of the Orbitrap.

The MALDI LTQ Orbitrap XL is perfectly suited for characterizing protein complexes. After the initial MS and MS/MS analyses and identifications, the samples can be preserved on the MALDI target to pursue new interesting directions revealed by the first analyses."

The MALDI option is available for both the LTQ Orbitrap Discovery and LTQ Orbitrap XL platforms. The addition of the new MALDI source on the LTQ Orbitrap is suited for proteomics and metabolism applications, making it easier to analyze biological and polymer samples without extensive sample preparation. Other applications include high-throughput in-gel digest, de novo sequencing, quantitation based on isobaric labeling strategies (TMT Tags, iTRAQ), tissue imaging and small molecule analysis.

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Mass SpectrometryMass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful analytical technique used to identify and quantify molecules based on the mass-to-charge ratio of gas-phase ions. It provides detailed information about the structure, composition, and properties of compounds and is widely used across fields such as environmental monitoring, materials science, drug discovery and development, food and beverage testing, and wider chemical research. Key MS techniques include tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LS-MS) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS). Choosing from these wide range of techniques and technologies can be a daunting task, so keep up to date with scientific applications, performance expectations, and customer reviews here all in one place. Visit our product directory to receive quotes direct from the manufacturer. Genome AnalysisGenomics, the study of genomes, includes functional genomics, evolutionary genomics and comparative genomics. There are many genomic technologies such as DNA sequencing of whole genomes, computational biology and bioinformatics. DNA and nucleic acids must be isolated and concentrated from cells for analysis with kits, automated analyzers and software. Other useful technologies for studying genomics include PCR, microarrays and electrophoresis.ProteomicsProteomics is the systemic bioinformatics study of proteins and amino acids, including their structure, size, function and identification. Tools used in proteomics include chromatography, blotting and gels, protein arrays, mass spectrometry and ELISA and associated analysis software. Analyzers and proteomic systems should be sensitive, high resolution, fast and may be automated for high-throughput.MicrobiologyMicrobiology is the study of microorganisms including protists, prokaryotes, fungi, and, often, viruses. Microorganisms are a useful research tool as genetic vectors and, in immunology, for antibiotic susceptibility testing, cellular biology and genetics. Microorganisms commonly grow readily in incubators with microbial culture media; this can contain chromogenic supplements to differentiate between cell lines. Estimate your culture’s density of microorganisms with colony counters, or screen and select colonies for desirable clones with automated colony pickers. Additionally, equipment is available to monitor environments for the presence of microbes and identify with microbial identification instruments. Find the best microbiology products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.MALDI-TOF MSMALDI-TOF mass spectrometers (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight) are used for the mass analysis of large molecules, including proteins, DNA, polymers and other macromolecules due to its relatively soft ionization, reducing fragmentation whilst allowing fast data acquisition. Tandem mass analyzers such as TOF/TOF systems can be used to increase resolution and sensitivity of your analysis. Find the best MALDI-TOF products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.

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Princeton University Selects Thermo Scientific MALDI LTQ Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer