Ultraflextreme is a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometer equipped with a 1 kHz smartbeam-II laser (solid state, frequency-quadrupled Nd:YAG) which can be focused down to 10 micron for high spatial resolution.

The Facility provides software support for the analysis of polymers (PolyTools), protein top-down sequencing and peptide de-novo sequencing (BioTools), glycan analysis (part of ProteinScape), and microorganism identification (Biotyper). Regrettably, we do not have a MALDI imaging software licence, even though the instrument is capable of this application. 

Internal use rates

Trained user $65/hr

Typical analysis times

Approximately 15 minutes per sample, including sample and matrix preparation, data acquisition and reporting. The data acquisition only takes 30-60 seconds per sample, and cost is lower for large sample numbers.

TOF-TOF analyses require longer analysis times.

Types of samples

Intact proteins, peptides and peptide mixtures, oligosaccharides, DNA/RNA oligomers, polymers, bioconjugates

Sample requirements

MALDI process relies on matrix/analyte co-crystallization; and both the sample and the matrix must be dissolved in a volatile solvent. DMSO is not volatile on a practical timescale, neither is glycerol; thus, they should be removed from the samples. Examples of exceptions to this rule are ionic liquid matrices and insoluble polymers.

Protein and peptide samples must be desalted, because salts will suppress ionization of these analytes. However, volatile pH adjusters and buffers are permitted (e.g. trifluoroacetic, acetic, and formic acids, ammonium hydroxide, ammonium bicarbonate, triethylammonium bicarbonate, ammonium formate). Sample concentrations should be in the micromolar range (1 – 100 uM); minimum volume is 2 uL.

Oligosaccharides and nucleic acid oligomers require specialized sample preparation; please contact Tatiana.

Polymer samples can be submitted in solution or as solids; both soluble and insoluble polymers are accepted. Please note: carbon nanotubes and other conductive materials are not accepted.

Sample submission process

Samples are best submitted by appointment. Please, contact Tatiana.