Services
Prosolia's R/D laboratory boasts state-of-the-art mass spectrometry equipment, including ion traps (MSn), triple quadrupole (SRMs) and time-of-flight mass analyzer (Exact Mass). The laboratory is equipped with a cryomicrotome for sectioning tissue specimens and includes wet chemistry resources for sample preparation, staining, TLC etc.
Prosolia maintains close relationships with partnering businesses enabling access to state of the art LC/MS/MS equipment in the event a comparison of DESI to conventional methods is warranted.
Prosolia has considerable experience in government grants and contracting and is prepared to be a subcontractor.
Our mass spectrometry services include:
- Contract Research using DESI-MS and Related Ambient MS Methods
- Contract Engineering of Atmospheric Pressure Ion Sources and Interfaces
Feasibility Studies
Using DESI mass spectrometry, we can perform sample analysis of a variety of materials. From detection of organic contaminants on glass to antibiotics on in vivo medical devices to intact plant material, our approaches remove the tedious processes of conventional MS methods. We can perform feasibility studies as a first pass prior to beginning a more lengthy method development process.
Exact Mass Measurements:
DESI Mass Spectrum on a Waters LCT Premiere in W-mode of Rifampicin coated catheter from Cook Medical
Molecular Imaging
Study the distribution of molecules on surfaces such as biological tissue or thin-layer chromatography plates or other surfaces. Typical studies include the examination of thin tissue sections for drug and metabolite localization or endogenous lipids for biomarker detection.
DESI imaging of endogenous small molecule in a sagittal rat brain section
Screening for illicit substances, contaminants in food-stuffs...
Our methods provide rapid results with minimal up-front sample manipulation or preparation. Utilizing DESI mass spectrometry and MSn and/or Exact Mass Measurements, confirmation of illicit substances in biological or environmental samples is made possible with unprecedented results turn-around. Examples include, screening intact plant material for the identification of Salvia divinorum, rapid screening of counterfeit tablets, etc.
Engineering
Prosolia has extensive experience in the development of ionization sources for most major mass spectrometer vendors. Our knowledge of the various atmospheric pressure interfaces can be used to develop custom ionizations sources, made to your specifications, for your mass spectrometer. In addition, Prosolia can customize the Omni Spray® ion source for your custom built mass spectrometer.
Additionally, our engineering team can customize the slide holder of a standard Omni Spray® ion source to meet the unique requirements of your sample type. Possibilities include holders for plates of a non-standard size, TLC plate holders, and tablet holders.
Custom DESI/ESSI interface designed and built for an API portable mass spectrometer
Custom Transmission Mode DESI sample tray and substrate
The Process
We begin by discussing your project goals together in detail. Next, we will devise a preliminary design of experiments, timelines and budget, which may also include plans for any new hardware or software necessary to achieve the stated aims. Then, we jointly agree on a course of action and budget, including key milestones for minimizing risk. Finally, our scientists will actively communicate with you, the Client, during the execution of the work and prepare a professional report outlining what was done, a summary of the data, and the results and conclusions.
For projects involving custom engineering, our engineering and science teams will discuss the project with you to develop the necessary project requirements. After defining the project requirements, we will agree on a course of action and budget to complete the project. During the development process, our team will continue to communicate with you, the Client, to update on project status and obtain any necessary approvals. Once the design work is complete and all approvals have been met, custom components will begin to be manufactured by one of our many precision machine shops. Following the necessary testing and assembly, the custom components are delivered to the Client with all necessary documentation and instructions.
Confidentiality
Prosolia is accustomed to working on proprietrary client projects where the Client, the project and the data must all be protected from disclosure. We ask our Clients to define these restrictions before we bid on a project and it is our custom to sign nondisclosure agreements.
Past Customers Have Included:
Amicus Therapeutics, USA
EHD Group, USA
ICx Analytical Technologies, USA
Signature Science, LLC, USA
University of Texas at Austin, USA
Wageningen University, Germany
Wollongong University, Australia
Cost
Most of our projects are on a time and materials basis and are phased to allow the client to make go/no go decisions at appropriate benchmarks. Fixed price contracts are feasible in those cases that are less exploratory. To request a quote for services, please email info@prosolia.com, sales@prosolia.com or call 317-278-6171.