Ultrahigh-Throughput Sample Analysis Using Liquid Atmospheric Pressure Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Mass spectrometry (MS) allows for automated analysis of complex samples at high resolution without the need for labeling/derivatization. Liquid atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (LAP-MALDI) enables rapid sample preparation and MS analysis using microtiter-plate formats and high-performing mass spectrometers. We present a step change in high-speed, large-scale MS sample analysis of peptides at 20 samples/s and an enzymatic assay at 40 samples/s, i.e., an order of magnitude faster than current MS platforms. LAP-MALDI requires only low amounts of sample volume (<2 mu L), of which only a fraction (<1%) is typically consumed, and allows for multiplexing and high-speed MS/MS analysis, demonstrated at similar to 10 samples/s. Its high ion signal stability and similarity to electrospray ionization enables CVs below 10% and the analysis of multiply charged peptide ions at these extreme speeds. LAP-MALDI MS fulfills the speed requirements for large-scale population diagnostics and compound screening with the potential of analyzing >1 million samples per day.

Automated summary

Mass spectrometry enables automated analysis of complex samples without labeling. Liquid atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (LAP-MALDI) allows for rapid sample preparation and high-speed mass spectrometry analysis. This technology achieves a significant increase in analysis speed, has high ion signal stability, and can analyze multiply charged peptide ions at extreme speeds.