Developed in conjunction with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the SepQuant dropletProbe allows liquid surface extraction of analytes on surfaces and further analysis in an HPLC-MS detector. The technique allows a powerful alternative to Quantitative Whole Body Autoradiography (QWBA) and maximises the use of advanced mass spectrometry platforms for analytes detection.
First, the surface sample to be analyzed is mounted in a custom
sample tray. Then an optical image of the mounted sample is acquired
using a flatbed scanner controlled with the DropletProbe Premium©
software developed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Schematic of the surface sampling process including (a)
determining syringe-to-surface distance, (b) the positioning of the
syringe needle 100-300 μm above a defined surface spot, (c)
dispensing a discrete volume of extraction solvent onto a surface
creating a liquid junction between the needle and the surface,
(d) dissolution of the analyte in the extraction solvent, e) the liquid
is drawn back into the syringe needle after a predefined extraction
time, and (f) loaded into the sample loop followed by (g) injection for
a consecutive HPLC-MS/MS analysis. Steps (c)-(e) may be repeated
to improve extraction efficiency.
Extraction liquid dispensed by the needle in locked position
on (a) a tissue biopsy sample and on (b) a brain thin tissue section.
Zoomed in view in inset in (b) shows of liquid microjunction between
the tip of the needle and the sample.
Obtaining visual evidence of drug activity in subject tissue
Locating and analysing proteins in histological samples
Detecting endogenous and exogenous evidence on surfaces
Studying biological changes in animals and plants
If you would like further information on sample preparation solutions for mass spectrometry imaging, please fill in the form below and one of the team will be in touch.