Mass Spectrometry Core
The RTSF Mass Spectrometry Core is an open access resource where MSU researchers and facility staff perform analyses of small molecules, intact macromolecules, peptides, and metabolomic analyses using 10 mass spectrometers. Analyses typically involve compound identification or quantitative analysis. Students and other researchers are encouraged to become certified users of the instruments, and the facility staff offers frequent training in the theory and operation of facility instruments. Trained instrument users enjoy 24/7 open access to instruments; three staff experts perform analyses and provide consulting regarding method development and data interpretation. Metabolic and metabolite profiling analyses can be performed using a variety of instrument platforms, and are supported with data processing and statistical analysis software. Methods are currently running for high-throughput LC/MS/MS profiling of amino acids, phytohormones, signaling oxylipins, structural lipids, and organic acid metabolites. The facility performs analyses of samples from more than 100 institutions from across North America.
Equipment
- QTOF
- QTRAP
- GCT premier
- Quattro premier
- Quattro micro
- DSQ
- 3 Agilent MSD benchtop quadrapole mass spectrometers
- Axima
- MALDI
- Xevo
- LCQ Deca
Submission
The facility is, if time allows, accessible to academic investigators from any institution. Samples will be accepted provided they are appropriate for current facility capabilities. Access is also granted to occasional industrial clients on a time-available basis. Prior to sending samples, investigators are recommended to contact the facility to discuss the required analysis. This is necessary to insure that the most efficient and cost-effective analytical methods are employed. Samples are normally analyzed in the order of their receipt, but special arrangements can be made for unstable samples. A sample submission form should accompany each set of samples. The information requested on this form should be filled out completely to assure that the analyses can be carried out properly. Missing information from the form (e.g., sample solubility, stability, molecular formula, if known) will result in delays in the requested analyses.
Submitting Radioactive Samples
The facility is licensed to handle samples containing 3H, 14C and 32P and 35S isotopes. However, to meet NRC regulations a different sample submission protocol through the MSU Office of Radiation, Chemical and Biological Safety is necessary (see below). Michigan State University requires that this mailing procedure be followed even for trace levels of radioactive material.
All radioactive samples must be initially processed by the MSU Office of Radiation, Chemical and Biological Safety (ORCBS) BEFORE they can be received by the MSU Mass Spectrometry Facility.
- Contact Kristin Bronson (Radiation Safety Officer) in advance by telephone 517-355-5008 or e-mail (ericks30@msu.edu) to alert her that a sample will be shipped.
- NRC license information must be exchanged between your home institution’s Radiation Safety Office and MSU’s ORCBS before shipments are mailed.
- Address overnight delivery package (FEDEX, UPS) as follows:
ORCBS c/o Professor David Dewitt
C-124 Research Complex-Eng.
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824
- ORCBS will check and log the samples and deliver them the same day to the Mass Spectrometry Facility in the Biochemistry Department.
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