MALDI TOF
MALDI TOF | Bruker Smart Flex
Precision Biomolecular Profiling
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, also known as MALDI-TOF MS, is a powerful analytical technique for identifying and characterizing biomolecules, large organic compounds, and microbial species. This method offers rapid identification, routine identification, and precise analysis by ionizing sample molecules without fragmentation. The process allows for the determination of molecular weights with exceptional accuracy, making it indispensable in applications requiring high sensitivity.
MALDI-TOF MS excels in applications such as protein identification, polymer analysis, and microorganism profiling, including differentiation at the species level. Its broad mass range and time-of-flight (TOF) mass analysis separate ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio, generating detailed spectra for both small and large molecules. Coupling MALDI-TOF MS with specialized software further enhances its capabilities, enabling strain-level identification, peptide sequencing, and rapid detection of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens through database comparison.

Our Vision
Why Choose Us For MALDI TOF Analysis?
Support
Our expert team, with extensive backgrounds in MALDI-TOF MS, is dedicated to assisting you at every step, from sample preparation to data interpretation.
Accuracy
We deliver precise, reliable data using advanced techniques and numerous quality control processes, ensuring consistency in all our analyses.
Adaptable
We provide flexible solutions tailored to meet the unique requirements of your projects, whether for routine identification or more complex strain-level analyses.
To achieve unparalleled precision in biomolecular analysis, Artemis Labs utilizes advanced MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry techniques tailored to the unique complexities of each sample. Our methods are rigorously validated for accuracy, sensitivity, linearity, resolution, and repeatability. We take pride in delivering high-quality results, ensuring every analysis meets the stringent standards required for microorganism profiling and rapid detection.
How Does MALDI TOF Work?
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) is a sophisticated analytical technique that combines laser-based ionization with time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry to identify and characterize biomolecules, polymers, and microbial species. It excels in routine identification, offering high precision and efficiency.
The process begins with sample preparation, where the analyte is mixed with a matrix compound, typically a small organic molecule that absorbs laser energy. The prepared sample is then applied to a metal plate and allowed to dry, forming a co-crystallized surface. During analysis, a laser beam irradiates the sample, causing the matrix to sublimate and carry the analyte molecules into the gas phase. This step ionizes the analyte molecules, usually by protonation, creating charged species without breaking them apart.
Once in the mass spectrometer, the ions travel through a vacuum tube to the detector. Time-of-flight mass analysis separates these ions based on their mass-to-charge (m/z) ratio, with smaller ions arriving at the detector faster than larger ones. The resulting spectra provide detailed information about the molecular weights and compositions of the analyte species.
MALDI-TOF MS is ideal for high-throughput workflows like microbial identification, biomarker discovery, and rapid detection of pathogens. The technique benefits from a broad dynamic range and the ability to detect a wide variety of compounds in a single run. Advanced features, such as tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), further enhance its capabilities, enabling strain-level analysis and structural elucidation of biomolecules.
Additional MALDI TOF Information
What are the key applications of MALDI-TOF?
MALDI-TOF MS is widely used in fields such as proteomics, microbiology, polymer science, and clinical diagnostics. It is a cornerstone technique for rapid identification of microorganisms, enabling profiling of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts based on their protein spectra. Its versatility extends to routine identification in research, quality control, and diagnostic laboratories.
What are the uniqe advantages of using MALDI-TOF ?
MALDI-TOF MS offers unique advantages, including rapid detection, minimal sample preparation, and the ability to analyze large biomolecules without fragmentation. Unlike techniques such as electrospray ionization (ESI), MALDI-TOF MS is particularly effective for high-mass compounds and heterogeneous mixtures. Its combination of high sensitivity, broad dynamic range, and compatibility with high-throughput workflows makes it a preferred method for many analytical needs.
How does MALDI-TOF compare to traditional methods?
MALDI-TOF MS offers significant advantages over traditional biochemical and molecular techniques. It provides rapid detection and routine identification of microbial species with greater accuracy and speed. For example, identifying pathogens like E. coli or other bacterial isolates takes minutes rather than hours or days, making it invaluable for clinical and environmental applications.
How is MALDI-TOF used for microbial identification?
MALDI-TOF MS revolutionized microbial identification by providing a fast and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. The technique involves preparing a microbial colony, ionizing its proteins, and comparing the resulting spectra to a reference database. This allows for precise identification of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts at the species level within minutes, making it essential in clinical diagnostics and public health research.
What factors can affect the accuracy of MALDI-TOF results?
The accuracy of MALDI-TOF MS identification depends on factors like sample preparation, matrix selection, and the quality of the reference database. Proper co-crystallization of the analyte with the matrix ensures efficient ionization and reliable mass spectra. Additionally, environmental factors such as humidity and contamination can influence results, underscoring the importance of maintaining a clean, controlled laboratory environment.
What role does MALDI imaging play in MALDI-TOF MS?
MALDI imaging solutions expand the capabilities of MALDI-TOF by allowing spatial distribution analysis of biomolecules within tissue samples. This technique is particularly useful in clinical diagnostics, cancer research, and drug development, offering insights that go beyond traditional mass spectrometry methods.
Contact Us
Send us a message
We’ll help you find the correct technique or service for your sample type, offering solutions specific to your project.
Method and results support
We offer method validation as required, including report writing and data interpretation once the analysis is completed.