Nanospray Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
The Nanospray Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometer, called nanoDESI, is used primarily for environmental research. The instrument’s analytical platform allows in-depth molecular characterization of very small samples of organic materials (down to 10 ng), and volumes, while maintaining high sensitivity and acquisition of mass spectra at high mass resolution. The instrument’s analytical platform allows in-depth molecular characterization of very small samples of organic materials (down to 10 ng), and volumes, in situ, while maintaining high sensitivity and acquisition of mass spectra at high mass resolution. This source can be coupled to a number of different mass spectrometers housed in EMSL.
Researchers can use both platforms for a variety of environmental research projects that are relevant to atmospheric aerosol chemistry, aquatic and soil chemistry, and mass spectrometry imaging of biological samples. Under certain circumstances nanoDESI can be coupled with EMSL’s 21 Telsa Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance.
Research application
- Supporting the Biomolecular Pathways Integrated Research Platform, nanoDESI provides accurate, spatial profiling and quantification of biological samples.
- Supporting the Cell Signaling and Communications Integrated Research Platform, it provides high-resolution imaging and single-cell multi-omic measurements that help researchers untangle the mechanisms by which cells communicate and exchange chemical signals.
- Supporting the Terrestrial-Atmospheric Processes Integrated Research Platform, nanoDESI provides molecular level characterization of organic aerosols and high-resolution chemical information about biological particles, secondary organic aerosols, and soil organic matter.
Tips for success
- In order to use nanoDESI, a researcher must book the Orbitrap MS or FTICR instrument.
- Samples collected on PTFE filters are ideal for data collection and analysis.