What does the timsTOF flex MALDI-2 do?

The timsTOF flex MALDI-2 can be used to identify a range of biomolecules including lipids, metabolites, and proteins. In contrast to our existing technology, the new instrument can analyze not only liquid samples but also solid samples such as tissue sections. Consequently, we can now map the distribution of these biomolecules across tissues at a resolution of 50 micrometers, approximately the size of a grain of sand or the width of a single strand of hair. This process is also referred to as Imaging Mass Spectrometry.

What is the benefit of having this technology at Stowers?

The new technology will allow researchers to map the distribution of large numbers of different biomolecules in tissues. For example, this could allow identification of groups of biomolecules specific to diseased tissue or subsets of biomolecules important for fundamental biological processes such as regeneration.

What are you most looking forward to about having access to this technology?

As the name implies (“flex”), the new instrument is flexible. Using ion mobility, this instrument is far more sensitive, allowing us to characterize proteins from a single cell. Previously, protein analysis by mass spectrometry relied on much larger samples prepared from thousands of cells. This will open new avenues for research and will be exciting to observe differences in the proteome from one cell to another.

Can you describe a few collaborations that your team has utilized this technology in?

We are increasingly collaborating with the other Technology Centers here at the Stowers Institute. For example, we coordinate with the Histology team to prepare tissue sections on slides prior to MALDI imaging. Single cell proteomics analyses involve collaboration with Cytometry for cell sorting, and Automation for the robotics technology needed for small-scale sample preparation.