bioMS technology platform

Mass range: 40 to 6,000 m/z

Resolution: Up to 480,000 at 200 m/z (Orbitrap analyzer)

Mass accuracy: < 3 ppm RMS (external calibration), < 1 ppm RMS (internal calibration)

Scan rates: Up to 200 Hz (Astral analyzer), up to 40 Hz (Orbitrap analyzer)

Dynamic range: > 5,000 in a single scan

The Orbitrap Astral mass spectrometer combines high sensitivity, deep proteome coverage and fast throughput. With its innovative combination of quadrupole mass filter, Orbitrap analyzer and Astral analyzer, it delivers high-resolution, accurately mass calibrated data with outstanding sensitivity and dynamic range. With its high MS/MS acquisition rate of up to 200 Hz and the capability for data independent acquisition (DIA) and tandem mass tag (TMT) quantification

Mass Range: 40 to 2,000 m/z (expandable to 16,000 m/z with HMRn+ option)

Resolution: Up to 480,000 at 200 m/z

Mass Accuracy: < 3 ppm RMS (external calibration), < 1 ppm RMS (internal calibration)

Scan Rates: Up to 45 Hz (Orbitrap Analyzer), up to 50 Hz (Ion Trap Analyzer)

Dynamic Range: > 5,000 in a single Orbitrap scan

The Orbitrap Ascend Tribrid mass spectrometer from Thermo Scientific sets new standards in proteomics, biopharma analytics, and structural biology. Thanks to its unique Tribrid architecture, it combines a quadrupole mass filter, a linear dual-pressure ion trap, and an Orbitrap analyzer to ensure maximum flexibility and performance. With its highly sensitive Active Ion Management (AIM+) technology, the instrument optimizes ion transmission and reduces interference signals for improved quantification. The Auto-Ready Ion Source allows for fully automated calibration without manual adjustments. The system supports numerous fragmentation techniques, including HCD, CID, ETD, EThcD, and ETciD, making it ideal for comprehensive proteome studies, small molecule analyses, and structural investigations of protein complexes. With the TurboTMT Mode and the Real-Time Search Function for TMT-based quantification, the Orbitrap Ascend achieves unmatched accuracy and proteome depth—from single cells to highly complex biological samples.

Mass range: 50 to 6,000 m/z (mass over charge)

Resolution: up to 140,000 at 200 m/z, maximum 280,000

Ion fragmentation : HCD (Higher-Energy Collisional Dissociation)

Mass accuracy : < 3 ppm RMS (root mean square) external calibration, < 1 ppm RMS internal calibration

High scanning speed (12 Hz, 17,500 resolution)

Multiplexing (up to 10 precursors/scan) and targeted proteomics (SIM/PRM)

The Q Exactive Plus is a benchtop unit that is coupled with the Ultimate 3000 RSLC system for LC/MS applications. The Proxeon source with a steel emitter is used for electrospray ionisation. Ionised peptides enter the Q Exactive Plus through a heated transfer capillary and an S-lens and focus the ion stream. The ion stream is then directed to an advanced quadrupole mass filter and selected ions are collected and stored in a C-trap. The C-trap transfers ions to either the Orbitrap mass analyser or the HCD cell for ion fragmentation, followed by mass analysis in the Orbitrap. The Q Exactive enables the monitoring of selected ions (SIM) and the monitoring of parallel reactions (PRM).

Mass range: 400 to 32000 m/z (Qudrupolation for MS/MS up to m/z 32000)

Application: Detection of high masses and intact non-covalent protein complexes

Ion fragmentation: collision-induced dissociation with argon or xenon gas

Ion mobility separation: travelling wave tube for separation by collision cross-section

The instrument uses electrospray to transfer proteins intact and in their folded state as well as non-covalent protein complexes from an aqueous buffer solution into the gas phase without dissociation or fragmentation. This mass spectrometric technique is known as ‘Native MS’ and enables the investigation of the binding affinity and stoichiometry of protein-protein or protein-ligand complexes as well as the determination of the precise molecular masses of the individual components of a complex system. In recent years, Native MS has become an important complementary method to existing structural biological analysis tools. In addition, Native MS has been successfully combined with Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) in the gas phase. In this technique, ions are passed in packets through a drift tube filled with nitrogen. As larger ions are slowed down more during collisions than smaller ones, a drift time spectrum can be recorded. By comparing the drift times of proteins with known collision cross-sections (CCS), the CCS of an analyte can be estimated. This makes it possible to identify conformational changes induced by ligand binding or mutations and to monitor the unfolding of proteins during stepwise collision activation.

Flow Rates: 1 nL/min – 100 µL/min (recommended: 100 nL/min – 100 µL/min)

Maximum Pressure: Up to 1,500 bar

Gradient Volume: <0.5 µL in nano direct injection configuration

Sample Introduction: Direct injection or trap-and-elute with forward or reverse elution

MS Coupling: Compatible with mass spectrometry systems

The Vanquish Neo UHPLC system is designed for nano-LC-MS applications, offering a wide flow rate range and high-pressure stability. Active flow control ensures precise retention times and stable gradients. An automated rinsing system reduces carryover, while SmartInject technology minimizes pressure fluctuations to extend column lifespan. The system supports various injection modes, including direct injections and trap-and-elute strategies, and enables the processing of small sample volumes with Vial Bottom Detection. Featuring an intuitive user interface (Vanquish User Interface, VUI), the system provides direct control options, system monitoring, and maintenance functions.

Flow Rates: 50 nL/min – 1,000 nL/min

Maximum Pressure: Up to 900 bar (ProFlow Flowmeter)

Column Compatibility: Nano columns (75 µm I.D.)

Sample Introduction: Direct injection or pre-concentration with trapping columns

MS Coupling: Optimized for coupling with Thermo Scientific mass spectrometers

The UltiMate 3000 RSLCnano from Thermo Scientific is an advanced UHPLC system for demanding proteomic analyses. It enables precise and reproducible separations with extremely low flow rates and high sensitivity. Thanks to ProFlow technology, the system offers precise flow control, maximizing gradient stability and reproducibility. The nanoViper fittings ensure dead-volume-free connections for optimal chromatographic performance. The system is compatible with a variety of trapping and separation columns, allowing for both direct injections and sample pre-concentration.

Platform Capacity: 9 positions for 96-, 384-, and 1536-well microplates

Pipetting Heads: Interchangeable disposable tip and AssayMAP heads

Injection Volume: 0.05 – 250 µL (depending on head configuration)

Gripper Function: For automated plate movement

Control: VWorks software for protocol creation and device control

The Agilent Bravo Platform is a versatile liquid handling system designed for high-throughput proteomics applications. With nine positions on the work deck, the Bravo platform offers flexibility for various pipetting tasks. The interchangeable liquid handling heads support both disposable tips for standard applications and the AssayMAP head for cartridge-based assays. The VWorks software enables precise platform control, including Teachpoint calibration for reproducible pipetting processes. A gripper allows for automated movement of microplates within the deck. The Bravo Platform is suitable for a wide range of laboratory applications, from sample preparation to high-throughput screening analysis.