MRI: Acquisition of a High Resolution Tandem MALDI Mass Spectrometer

Colorado School Of Mines, Golden CO

Investigators

Abstract

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program, Professor Kent Voorhees from Colorado School of Mines and colleagues Kim Williams, Andrew Herring, Matthew Posewitz and John Spear will acquire a matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (MALDI TOF/MS). The proposal is aimed at enhancing research training and education at all levels, especially in areas such as (a) ionization modes for laser ionization and analysis of biological materials; (b) field-flow fractionation for biomarkers for disease diagnostics; (c) characterization of energy hydrocarbons;(d) protein studies associated with developing algae feedstocks for biofuels; and (e) environmental proteomics. A matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (MALDI TOF/MS) uses a laser to vaporize a solid sample (analyte) embedded in a material (matrix) which absorbed the analyte. The plume of matrix and analyte vapors form ions which flow into a mass spectrometer where their mass/charge ratio is measured. This highly sensitive technique allows determination of the masses of the particles, their chemical composition and deduction of the structure of the substances under investigation. The instrumentation provided by this award will provide faculty and students the opportunity to pursue research projects at the Colorado School of Mines. The instrument will also be used by faculty, students and investigators from nearby NREL, University of Denver, University of Colorado at Denver, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, Colorado State University at Pueblo, Red Rocks CC, and Metro State College.