MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MALDI-MSI) Service
Our MALDI-MSI services combine precise tissue preparation with high-resolution molecular imaging, enabling you to map the distribution of drugs, metabolites, lipids, and proteins directly in tissue sections—no antibodies or labeling required. We guide you through optimal sample handling and embedding for your downstream analysis, ensuring reproducible, publication-ready data. For personalized advice or project planning, our team is ready to consult with you.
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What is MALDI-MSI
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MALDI-MSI) is a powerful technology that combines the molecular depth of mass spectrometry with the spatial context of microscopy.
Unlike traditional LC-MS/MS, which requires tissue homogenization (losing spatial data), or Immunohistochemistry (IHC), which requires specific antibodies, MALDI-MSI provides:
- Label-Free Detection: Analyze hundreds of molecules simultaneously without target-specific probes.
- Spatial Context: correlate molecular changes directly with histological regions (tumor vs. healthy tissue).
- Multiplexing Capability: Detect drugs, metabolites, and endogenous biomolecules in a single run.
Our Service Offerings
We offer end-to-end MALDI imaging solutions tailored to your research needs, from sample preparation to advanced bioinformatics.
- Drug Distribution & DMPK Studies
Visualize the penetration of pharmaceutical compounds and their metabolites within tissues.- Applications: Blood-brain barrier penetration, tumor uptake, and off-target accumulation.
- Quantitation: Semi-quantitative analysis using mimetic tissue models.
- Metabolomics & Lipidomics Imaging
Map the metabolic phenotype of tissues to understand disease pathology.- Targets: Phospholipids, fatty acids, amino acids, neurotransmitters, and energy metabolites (ATP/ADP).
- Resolution: High-spatial resolution options (down to 10 µm).
- Proteomics & Peptide Imaging
Analyze the spatial distribution of larger biomolecules.- On-tissue Digestion: Trypsin digestion protocols to map peptide distributions.
- Biomarker Discovery: Identify protein markers specific to disease sub-regions.
- Multimodal Integration
We don't just give you a heatmap; we give you context.- H&E Co-registration: Overlay molecular images with high-resolution H&E scans of the same tissue section.
- IHC/IF Correlation: Compare MS images with traditional antibody staining.
Workflow of MALDI-MSI
Why Partner with Us
- State-of-the-Art Technology We utilize cutting-edge MALDI instrumentation and optimized workflows to ensure high-quality, reproducible results.
- Expert Support Our team of experienced scientists offers end-to-end support, from sample preparation to data interpretation, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
- Customizable Solutions We understand that each project is unique. We work closely with you to tailor the analysis to meet your specific research objectives.
- Confidentiality & Quality Assurance Your data is handled with the utmost care and confidentiality, adhering to strict quality assurance protocols to maintain the integrity of your results.
FAQs
Can you analyze FFPE tissues?
A: Yes, specifically for peptides and proteins. However, for lipids and small molecule metabolites, fresh-frozen tissue is strongly recommended to preserve molecular integrity.
Do I need to know the exact mass of my target?
A: Not necessarily. MALDI-MSI can detect a broad range of metabolites, lipids, and small molecules without prior knowledge of their exact masses. However, if you aim to track a specific compound or perform targeted analysis, knowing the exact mass improves identification confidence and allows precise mapping.
What is the difference between 10 µm and 20 µm resolution in MALDI-MSI, and can it distinguish metabolic differences between cell populations?
A: A 10 µm resolution approaches single-cell level, allowing finer spatial mapping of metabolites, while 20 µm provides faster acquisition with slightly less spatial detail. While true single-cell resolution is challenging, 10 µm can often resolve distinct cell populations and local metabolic heterogeneity in many tissue types.
Can MALDI-MSI be performed on very limited sample material?
A: Yes, small samples can be analyzed, but to ensure reliable and reproducible data, we recommend a minimum of three biological replicates per group.
What is the typical turnaround time for MALDI-MSI?
A: Sample preparation (including H&E staining if needed) typically takes 2 weeks. Imaging acquisition and data processing generally require 3-4 weeks. Turnaround can be adjusted for manuscript submission or specific project needs upon discussion.
Learn about other Q&A.
Sample Preparation Guidelines
To ensure successful ionization and imaging, please adhere to these specific substrate and embedding requirements.
| Parameter | Requirement | Technical Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Slide Type | ITO-Coated Conductive Slides | MALDI requires a conductive surface to prevent surface charging. Standard glass slides are not compatible unless we transfer the tissue (which risks distortion). |
| Tissue Format | Blocks (Preferred) | Sending blocks allows us to section directly onto ITO slides in our lab, ensuring perfect flatness and adhesion. |
| Embedding | CMC, Gelatin or OCT | Please note that OCT embedding must be strictly avoided for spatial metabolomics samples. However, mild OCT embedding is acceptable for spatial proteomics projects. |
| Fixation | Fresh Frozen (Lipids/Metabolites) FFPE (Peptides/Proteins) | Choose the fixation method that matches your target class. Formalin cross-linking prevents the detection of most small molecules. |
| Shipping | Dry Ice (-80°C) | Essential for frozen blocks to prevent degradation. |
Before starting sample preparation, a consultation with our team will be conducted to discuss your tissue type, embedding choices, and downstream analysis requirements, ensuring optimal sample quality and a smooth workflow.
