The first technology, Super Mass Spec, defines a new category of mass spectrometers in which ions produced by a single ion source are processed in parallel by a network of mass spectrometers. This stands in contrast to the serial processing of ions that is typically performed by conventional mass spectrometers, according to the company.

Super Mass Spec. Image courtesy of Trace Matters.

With Super Mass Spec, each cluster of mass spectrometers (a set of mass spectrometers with identical hardware that work together as a single system) operates in parallel. As a result, sensitivity, scan speed, and the dynamic range of each cluster is independently scalable.

In addition, Super Mass Spec allows for simultaneous analysis of a single sample with different clusters of mass spectrometers, with each cluster employing a different type of mass spectrometry technology, such as triple quadrupole, time of flight, or trapping mass analyzers. This provides a multidimensional view of highly complex samples for cross-examination and cross-verification of mass spectrometry data and promotes deep proteome coverage and quantitative data completeness in bottom-up proteomics workflows, Trace said.

The second technology, SPion Link, extends the front end of a mass spectrometer into a liquid handling station and seamlessly connects them to each other via a lossless ion transfer path. With SPion Link, fully automated mass spectrometry workflows can be developed to analyze samples directly from microtiter plates, such as 96-well plates, via custom disposable pipette tips.

This design provides significant advantages, particularly for clinical applications, where the amount of available sample is typically small. SPion Link also minimizes reagent use and related costs, eliminates issues with cross-contamination and dead volumes, and allows for an unprecedented level of automation in mass spectrometry workflows essential for the reproducibility of mass spectrometry data. It also reduces the cost of analysis and minimizes exposure of lab personnel to biological samples that may be hazardous.