ResourceSpectroscopy

The MasSpec Pen in the hands of surgeons

10 Nov 2023

In this application note, Thermo Fisher Scientific explores the potential benefits of mass spectrometers over microscopes in surgical histopathology. By utilizing spectra instead of traditional stains, surgeons and pathologists could achieve real-time identification of cancerous versus normal tissue, leading to reduced surgical time and enhanced patient care. The conventional method involves freezing, sectioning, and staining tissue samples, followed by microscopic analysis, a process taking 15–45 minutes per sample. However, this approach has limitations, including artifacts and complexities in certain tissues like pancreatic cancer. Mass spectrometry offers a promising alternative for faster and more accurate intraoperative tissue analysis.

Thermo Scientific™ Orbitrap Exploris™ 480 mass spectrometer

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Empowering life science researchers to translate each step to a new level of insight with a next generation ownership experience coupled with an intelligence-driven experimental approach. With the Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer you'll find market leading quantitative performance to solve your most complex challenges with ease, and the proven qualitative performance you expect.

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LC-MSLC-MS (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) systems and equipment are used for separation and quantitative analysis of complex mixtures, combining liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Quantify proteins, contaminants, pesticides or screen for drug metabolites with a high level of sensitivity. LC-MS systems and equipment include reverse phase, normal phase and specialized columns integrated with various MS detectors such as time-of-flight (TOF), quadrupole, orbitrap or ion trap mass analyzers. LC-MS/MS instruments equipped with a qTOF or triple quadrupole analyzer give greater sensitivity and resolving power to your analysis. Find the best LC-MS equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.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. 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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.Embryology / IVFEmbryology refers to the development of an embryo resulting from the fertilization of the ovum, to fetus stage. In vitro fertilization (IVF) refers to the fertilization of the egg outside of the human body, and is an important treatment for infertility.Clinical GeneticsMolecular Genetics covers the analysis of hereditary genetic disease and chromosomal abnormalities. Genetics can be analysed using DNA, RNA, and protein microarrays, PCR, RT PCR and DNA sequencing. Genetic equipment includes genetic workstations, thermal cyclers, cooling blocks and electrophoresis products. Diagnostic kits are used for DNA / RNA extraction and purification.Tissue ProcessingTissue processing involves preparing biological tissue samples for microscopic analysis, including fixation, embedding, and sectioning. This process is essential for histopathology and diagnostic applications. Explore tissue processing products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.MicroscopyMicroscopy is a technique used to observe small objects in detail, from cells to materials, using light or electron microscopes. It enables researchers to examine structures with high resolution, aiding in fields such as biology, medicine, and materials science. With advanced microscopy techniques, scientists can gain insights into cellular processes, tissue structures, and material properties. Explore the best microscopy solutions in our peer-reviewed product directory, compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.
The MasSpec Pen in the hands of surgeons