Increase uptime

Maintain optimal performance of your system using MALDI EasyCare to manually clean the ion optics and autotune the instrument.

Key features

• Provides access to self-service routine maintenance allowing you to restore performance
• Reduces engineer call-outs, saving time, increasing uptime
• Safe, easy, removal / re-fit of ion optics
• Automated software tuning of deflector and detectors
• No technical expertise required due to software wizard guidance
• Easy upgrade of MALDI-8020 and MALDI-8030 instruments* using software licence
  *EasyCare-ready versions only
• Ideal for demanding applications such as MALDI imaging and high-throughput analysis of biological samples
• Easy integration into the laboratory with benchtop platform

Upgrade for the MALDI-8000 series

Upgrade to suit your workflow:

• MALDI-8020 and dual-polarity MALDI-8030* can be upgraded with MALDI EasyCare functionality using software licence activation from the upgrade kit
  *EasyCare-ready versions only.
• Upgrading to MALDI EasyCare provides you the control you need over increasing uptime with demanding applications such as MALDI imaging and high-throughput analysis of biological samples

Manual source cleaning

Easily remove, clean and re-fit ion optics to restore performance.

Automated software tuning

• No technical expertise is required – step-by-step guidance provided by the software wizard.
• Redirect your laboratory time to value-added activities to improve your productivity – when tuning slide is inserted the software performs the tuning of deflectors and detector for you 

Software wizard provides ‘read-and-click’ guidance and progress information

• Automated deflector tuning by software
• Automated detector tuning by software

MALDI-8000 series provides class-leading performance

• MALDI-8020 EasyCare and MALDI-8030 EasyCare retain the same performance as the MALDI-8020 and MALDI-8030
• The class leading mass resolution and sensitivity provides great value and outstanding data you need for MALDI imaging workflows

Immunohistochemistry MALDI mass spectrometry imaging (IHC-MALDI MSI) of  human tonsil using 20 probes in a single analysis (MALDI image above produced from overlay of probes for CD44 (m/z 1102), CD11b (m/z 1467) and CD20 (m/z 996); full list of probes analysed in experiment listed below)

Experiment details: 30138 profiles acquired at 200 Hz laser speed over duration of 4 hrs 11 mins in positive ion mode at 30 µm spatial resolution on MALDI-8020. Matrix deposition with Shimadzu automated sublimation device iMLayer using DHB MALDI matrix

20-plex markers: CD11b, CD20 , CD3e, CD4, CD44, CD45RO, CD45RA, CD68 , CD8α, ECAD, GZMB, HER2, Histone H3, Ki67, NCAM1 (CD56), PD1, PDGFR-B, PDPN, PR-A/B, PTEN. Probes provided by AmberGen 

The CELL PICKER system automates the pickup and removal of cell colonies using a pipetter. Easy-to-operate software simplifies the cell pickup process.

Cell pickup can be made even easier by connecting AUTO CHANGER, new optional equipment designed with automation in mind.

Main Applications:

・Construction of cell strains (genome editing cells, iPS cells)
・Recovery of spheroids

CELL PICKER is a trademark of Shimadzu Corporation or its affiliated companies in Japan and/or other countries.
CKX is a trademark or a registered trademark of Olympus Corporation.

Stress-Free Operations

In Pursuit of Automation

In addition to cell colony pickup, using the optional AUTO CHANGER automates related procedures, including the installation of chips directly from the rack, transfer of the seeding plate, and linkage of the seeded wells with images of the cells collected.

Achieves Picking Results Comparable to Manual Processing

Do you have problems with the difficult and unstable procedures during the picking process? By automating cell collection, seeding, and pipette tip replacement, CELL PICKER stabilizes the operations of picking up and removing cell colonies, processes typically reliant on an operator’s skill level. Using the easy-to-operate software, images of the cells can be automatically obtained before and after collection.

Ensuring Traceability

Standardization of Procedures Using Methods

CELL PICKER operates in accordance with pre-configured methods. With methods, the applicable cell type and type of container to use can be configured, enabling support for a variety of cultivation and testing conditions. Methods can be saved, so procedures utilizing the same conditions time can be implemented at any time.

Operation Window

Setting Items:

・Sample (adherent cells or spheroids)

・Mode (picking or removal)

・Sample vessel

・Seeding vessel

・Automatic image capture ON/OFF

Effortless Procedural Records

Procedures can be checked and recorded without burdening the operator due to functions that automatically take images, link the image name and operating conditions, and check the seeding conditions.

Images of Cellular Colonies Can be Obtained before and after Collection Using the Automatic Imaging Function

Images acquired automatically are saved with the name formatted as “date_time_serial number_well number*_before/after.” In addition, summary files are output in which the operating conditions are linked with the image names.

Summary File Example

*Output only by systems equipped with AUTO CHANGER

Features

• Creation of finer matrix crystal grains via the deposition method
• Improved reproducibility of matrix coatings via automatic coating thickness control
• Simple touch panel operation

The iMLayer AERO incorporates a sample stage that moves at a controlled rate while maintaining the same distance from the spray nozzle, enabling stable matrix spraying.
Over multiple strokes, the sample becomes laminated with fine matrix crystals, enabling high sensitivity and high spatial resolution.

Work Flow

Imaging with High Reproducibility

Humidity Control

Humidity does not impact matrix deposition because the atmosphere within the spray chamber is replaced before pretreatment. Spraying can be performed under more stable conditions than with a hand spray.

Clog-Free Reagent Delivery

If the matrix clogs the nozzle tip, the spray becomes unstable, which can lead to lower reproducibility. The rinsing mechanism allows for clog-free, stable spraying, which enables high reproducibility in MALDI analyses.

Both Sensitivity and Spatial Resolution Achieved

Excellent Spray Performance

The standard protocol provides sensitivity on par with a hand spray along with improved resolution, homogeneity and reproducibility

Two-Step Vapor Deposition

To acquire high spatial resolution (5 to 10 μm) images and increase sensitivity, a two-step vapor deposition method can be implemented in combination with the iMLayer matrix vapor deposition system has been developed.* This unique experiment can only be implemented using Shimadzu sample preparation solutions.

* Patent No.: JP6153139 and JP6183779

Two-Step Vapor Deposition Allows for Very Fine Images with Minimal Blur

Hand Spray

• Matrix：9-AA
• Volume used：200 μL

Two-Step Vapor Deposition1 step：iMLayer（vapor deposition method） 

• Film thickness：1 μm

 2 step：iMLayer AERO（spray method)） 

• Solution delivery volume：120 μL/min
• Stage speed：70 mm/sec
• Laminating layers：4

Applicable to Pretreatment Other than Matrix Coatings

Derivatization Treatment

With its simple configuration and compact size, it is possible to install the MALDImini-1 in places where mass analysis devices could not previously be used. Through ingenious engineering and innovation its footprint has been reduced to the size of a piece of paper.

“Minimum” time

Miniaturization allows rapid, “on-the-spot” analysis and simplifies data acquisition.

“Minimum” sample volume

Complex structural analysis can be performed even with sub-μL sample volumes.

“Minimum” footprint

The MALDI-MS that can be installed anywhere

Until now, devices for MSⁿ have had strenuous installation requirements, but the MALDImini-1’s compact size and power requirements make it easy to install almost anywhere. Easy access to the instrument allows users to quickly acquire data and check their results, creating a more convenient workflow right on the bench.

“Minimum” time

Begin taking measurements quickly without fuss

MALDI lends itself to quick analysis through simple sample preparation and acquisition. Once the sample is loaded, users can acquire a spectrum in a few minutes at the click of a button.

With such a smooth and quick setup, it is possible to carry out detailed structural analyses in a very short time span.

“Minimum” sample volume

MSⁿ analysis is possible over a wide mass range, even with microquantity samples

By combining a MALDI ion source with Digital Ion Trap (DIT) technology, it is possible to carry out high-sensitivity MS and MSⁿ analysis even on micro-quantity samples. Not only can the mass of various molecules be checked, but it is also possible to carry out a wide range of analyses such as identifying proteins and investigating the structure of glycans and glycopeptides.

■Identifying protein digests

By carrying out MS and MS/MS measurements on protein digests, it is possible to determine the identify of a protein.

■MALDImini Console

With the dedicated control software for MALDImini-1, you can take measurements just by setting simple analysis parameters. Switch quickly and easily between MS, MS/MS and MS³ modes for seamless analysis. Data can be exported in mzML or mzXML formats.

■Compatibility with Software Solutions

Powerful processing tools can be used to analyze your exported mzML or mzXML data, such as MASCOT for identifying protein digests, SimGlycan for processing MSⁿ data for glycans, and eMSTAT Solution for statistical analysis.

• eMSTAT Solution

■Investigating glycopeptide structure

Through MS, MS/MS and MS³ measurements of synthetic O-linked glycopeptides, the glycan sequence can be found from MS/MS data and the amino acid sequence of the peptide backbone can be found from MS³ data.

MALDImini, eMSTAT Solution and FlexiMass are trademarks of Shimadzu Corporation.
MASCOT is a registered trademark of Matrix Science Ltd.
SimGlycan is a trademark of PREMIER Biosoft International.

The iMScope QT boasts not only fusion with morphology studies but also excellent speed, sensitivity, and spatial resolution, clearing the way to next-generation mass spectrometry imaging.

This instrument is not available in the USA and may not be available in some other countries. Please contact your local Shimadzu representative for availability.

Total System for MS Imaging Analysis

Mass spectrometry imaging is performed in three steps: pretreatment, data acquisition, and data analysis.
At each step, the optimal approach accelerates research, while improving the reliability of the results.

Key Points for MS Imaging

Combined Analysis

Fusion of observations from an optical microscope with MS images
(exclusive to Shimadzu)

MS images can be obtained flexibly and matched to observation images,
either the entire image area or detailed portions of it.

Measurement Results for the Cerebellum with 5 μm Spatial Resolution

• Sample ：Whole mouse brain
• Matrix ：9-AA
• Measurement region ：662×595（393890pix）
• Measurement time: ：around 2.2 hours

The region in the red frame below (cerebellum) was measured with a resolution of 5 μm. High-resolution MS imaging and morphological observations with the optical microscope support cutting-edge research.

Measurement Results for Whole Brain Sections in Negative Mode

• Sample:Whole mouse brain
• Matrix ：9-AA
• Measurement region: ：1126×624（702624pix）
• Measurement time：around 6 hours

The sections of the mouse brain (17 mm × 9.4 mm) were measured at high resolution with a 15 μm pitch (702,624 pixels). The high-resolution analysis of these large brain sections was completed in around 6 hours, enabling testing to proceed efficiently.

Quantification and Distribution

Obtain qualitative and quantitative information from LC-MS as well as position information from mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) with a single instrument.

The combined system, which can perform LC-MS analysis in addition to MSI analysis, provides both distribution information and quantitative analysis.

Use as an MSI System

Sections of mouse tissue administered with chlorpromazine were measured with the iMScope QT. The distribution of unaltered chlorpromazine including differences in abundance could be visualized without the need for labeling.

Use as an LC-MS System

From the consecutive sections, the positions circled in the figure above were excised using laser micro dissection (LMD), and the extracted liquid was measured with the LCMS-9030.
The results below show a quantitative analysis of the concentration of chlorpromazine in the extracted liquid, carried out with LabSolutions Insight. In this way, concentration differences of the pharmaceutical agent in the tissue sections indicated by MSI could be confirmed from the quantitative results determined using LC-MS.

In addition, it is possible to estimate the molecular formula of an unknown compound using the LabSolutions Insight Explore composition estimation function.
In this case, when the peak at m/z = 319.10 determined using MSI was analyzed using the composition estimation function, the molecular formula for the unaltered chlorpromazine substance (C17H19N2SCl) was indicated as the most likely with the highest score.

Results: highest score of 98.99, Diff. 0.15 mDa (0.458 ppm), C17H19N2SCl

High Resolution, Speed and Accuracy

Acquisition of accurate, high-speed, high-resolution MS images, together with efficient data analysis

Combination of the high-accuracy, high-speed LCMS-9030* with high-resolution mass spectrometry imaging

Revolutionary, High Performance Analysis System

After scanning with the built-in optical microscope, the sample plate is moved directly to the ionization position, and the imaging process begins

* The LCMS-9030 is sold separately

Designed for Easy Attachment

The iMScope QT can be easily attached or detached from the LCMS-9030 to switch between mass spectrometry imaging and high-sensitivity LC-MS analysis.

Effortless Performance for Accurate Mass

Excellence in Mass Measurement Accuracy (MMA）

Mass measurement accuracy (MMA) is the key performance attribute underlying all application fields using high-resolution accurate-mass (HRAM) spectrometers. The LCMS-9030 delivers the MMA needed for high-condence identification of unknown compounds at an unprecedented level of stability. This is made possible by new technologies implemented in the Intelligent Temperature Control System and the UF-FlightTube that accurately offset the changes occurring to both internal and external environments. With the LCMS-9030, Shimadzu aims to totally refashion the HRAM user experience, enabling scientists to run more samples at longer calibration intervals with greater confidence and ease.

Stable MMA Against Temperature Fluctuation

Shimadzu’s Intelligent Temperature Control System ensures stable MMA even in laboratory environments susceptible to temperature changes. To demonstrate, standards ranging from 150 to 1700 Da were analyzed continuously after a single calibration. Normal laboratory temperature fluctuation was observed between 25°C and 28°C.

Without additional mass correction, the measured accurate masses of all compounds remained within 1 ppm of the theoretical mass for the 60-hour duration of the experiment. With the LCMS-9030, laboratory productivity can be increased by running long, calibration-free batches with confidence.

Multimodal Imaging System

MALDI-MS molecular imaging data and LA-ICP-MS elemental imaging data can be analyzed using a single software solution. That makes multimodal imaging more accessible.

MALDI-8030

The MALDI-8030 is the latest in a long line of MALDI-TOF products from Shimadzu. Instrument performance specifications is extended from those of the MALDI-8020 to cater for compounds best suited to analysis in negative ion mode. This dual-polarity, benchtop linear MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer delivers outstanding performance in a compact footprint, making it an ideal choice for today’s increasingly demanding laboratories.
 

Key features:

– Dual mode (positive/negative ion) MALDI-TOF
– 200 Hz solid-state laser, 355 nm
– Load-lock chamber for fast sample introduction
– UV laser-based source cleaning (patented)
– Flexibility
– Small footprint/benchtop design
– Quiet operation (<55 dB)

Sample target solutions

Compatible with the FlexiMass series of microscope slide-format sample targets, these slides provide researchers with options depending on their experimental workflow. The individually barcoded, single-use FlexiMass-DS slides provide a convenient solution for more routine or defined workflows. Ready-to-use, these disposable targets eliminate the need for cleaning and the risk of carryover. Alternatively, the reusable stainless steel FlexiMass-SR sample targets provide a cost-effective, longer-term solution to sample preparation.

TrueClean automated source cleaning

To maintain instrument performance over time, the MALDI-8030 features wide-bore ion optics – a feature used on our existing MALDI-TOF products – which minimize the risk of source contamination over time, providing a robust platform. To maximize uptime, the system is equipped with TrueClean – an automated, rapid (<10 min) UV laser-based source cleaning which can be used to clean the extraction electrode in-situ without breaking instrument vacuum.

Quality as standard

Through the selection of components demonstrating improved longevity and performance, and by reducing the number of component parts, our engineers have created a reliable and robust platform capable of delivering outstanding performance in a small footprint. The MALDI systems are maintained by trained service support engineers who form part of the Shimadzu global distribution and support network. Routine maintenance is simplified thanks to the instrument design, providing our engineers with easy access to commonly serviced parts.

Data management and integrity

 Operating under the control of MALDI Solutions software, the software features a centralized, secure Microsoft^® SQL database which can be used to store everything from sample lists and acquisition Parameter Sets to acquired MALDI data. The system is managed by an Administrator and customizable user profiles provide control over access to the database and operation of the instrument.

The MALDI-8020 is the latest in a long line of MALDI-TOF products from Shimadzu. This benchtop, linear MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer delivers outstanding performance in a compact footprint, making it an ideal choice for today’s increasingly demanding laboratories.

Key features:
– Linear mode (positive ion) MALDI-TOF
– 200 Hz solid-state laser, 355 nm
– Load-lock chamber for fast sample introduction
– UV laser-based source cleaning (patented)
– Small footprint/benchtop design
– Quiet operation (<55 dB)

Linear mode instruments have traditionally been the instruments of choice in MALDI-TOF-based quality control (QC) and profiling workflows, and the MALDI-8020 is no exception. Peptides, proteins, polymers or oligonucleotides – the instrument is capable of delivering the performance required for QC applications. Research laboratories will also benefit from the MS capabilities of the instrument through the rapid mass-measurement of samples.

* For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Sample target solutions

Compatible with the FlexiMass series of microscope slide-format sample targets, these slides provide researchers with options depending on their experimental workflow. The individually barcoded, single-use FlexiMass-DS slides provide a convenient solution for more routine or defined workflows. Ready-to-use, these disposable targets eliminate the need for cleaning and the risk of carryover. Alternatively, the reusable stainless steel FlexiMass-SR sample targets provide a cost-effective, longer-term solution to sample preparation.

TrueClean automated source cleaning

To maintain instrument performance over time, the MALDI-8020 features wide-bore ion optics – a feature used on our existing MALDI-TOF products – which minimize the risk of source contamination over time, providing a robust platform. To maximize uptime, the system is equipped with TrueClean – an automated, rapid (<10 min) UV laser-based source cleaning which can be used to clean the extraction electrode in-situ without breaking instrument vacuum.

Polymer analysis: polycarbonate from a CD (green spectrum) and polycarbonate standard (orange spectrum).
Inset: expanded view of the highlighted region.

Analysis of chlorhexidine gluconate in mouthwash solution. Sample was prepared with MALDI matrix without any clean-up or dilution.
Inset: expanded view showing peak at 505.2 m/z.

Facilitates 21 CFR Part 11 compliance

Operating under the control of MALDI Solutions software, the software features a centralized, secure Microsoft^® SQL database which can be used to store everything from sample lists and acquisition Parameter Sets to acquired MALDI data. The system is managed by an Administrator and customizable user profiles provide control over access to the database and operation of the instrument. Along with a full audit trail, the software provides the tools to help achieve 21 CFR part 11 regulatory compliance.

Quality as standard

As mass spectrometry moves into clinical laboratories, the MALDI-8020 is the perfect choice for researchers developing MALDI-based diagnostic methods*. The system is designed and manufactured to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485:2016 quality management standards and is CE compliant. Through the selection of components demonstrating improved longevity and performance, and by reducing the number of component parts, our engineers have created a reliable and robust platform capable of delivering outstanding performance in a small footprint. The MALDI systems are maintained by trained service support engineers who form part of the Shimadzu global distribution and support network. Routine maintenance is simplified thanks to the instrument design, providing our engineers with easy access to commonly serviced parts.

The MALDI-7090 is targeted for proteomics and tissue imaging. It combines Shimadzu’s extensive MALDI TOF-TOF mass spectrometry expertise with novel patented technology to provide ultimate performance in identification and structural characterization of biomolecules.

MALDI-7090 sets a new benchmark in MALDI TOF-TOF design:
 

• Market leading MS/MS resolution
• Proprietary solid state UV laser technology
• Ultra Fast acquisition speed in MS and MS/MS
• Integrated 10 plate loader
• Newly designed MALDI Solutions software

Key application areas

MALDI Solutions is the completely new software interface for the MALDI-7090 MALDI TOF-TOF mass spectrometer. Providing a powerful range of tools for method development, acquisition, data processing and interpretation, MALDI Solutions has been designed for ease of use and reliability. Each function within the MALDI Solutions suite is targeted to a particular application such as LC, MALDI, MALDI imaging or manual control, creating a simple and versatile application-centric platform.

MultiPlex

MultiPlex maximizes the efficient use of the MALDI-7090 through the combination of the integrated 10 plate loader, the 2 kHz ultra fast UV laser and the MALDI Solutions multi-user environment software.
MultiPlex enables both manual investigation and fully automated high-throughput analyses accommodating all types of experiments from single spot investigation to even the longest multi-plate LC-MALDI separations. Furthermore, it is also compatible with the FlexiMass-SR steel reusable and FlexiMass-DS disposable polymeric microscope slide format MALDI targets.
The MALDI-7090 is an ideal platform for individual laboratories and core facilities alike. MultiPlex expertly manages the MALDI-7090 workflow.
Experimental set-up, data processing and results review is now possible from any workstation linked to the instrument network thus creating a highly efficient and versatile multi-user interface. The realtime experiment queue within MultiPlex streamlines automated analyses such as LC-MALDI by assigning specific plate locations within the loader and monitoring progress of the submitted experiments. Plates can be loaded and unloaded from the 10 plate loader ready for analysis even while the instrument is running another experiment. The loader chamber also has the option of being held at standard atmosphere or vented to nitrogen to protect more sensitive samples.
Designed for maximum reliability, MultiPlex offers the ultimate flexibility in both high-throughput and multi-user environments.

A source design like no other

The MALDI-7090 includes a number of proprietary features to improve sensitivity and productivity.

• Wide Bore ion Optics: Consisting of unique wide-bore extraction optics, the MALDI-7090 ion optics are designed to maximize ion transmission and minimize source contamination over time.
• Ultra fast Laser: Shimadzu’s proprietary solid-state UV laser, designed specifically for the MALDI-7090, delivers true 2kHz acquisition speed in all modes. The added benefits of variable beam focus and long lifetime maximize reliability and broad-range applicability.
• HD sample viewing: The MALDI-7090 incorporates the latest state-of-the -art camera technology to deliver high-quality full HD color images of the sample with 10µm viewing resolution, software-controlled variable focus and long-life LED illumination.
• TrueClean: Optimal performance of the MALDI-7090 source is maintained using TrueClean – a novel and fully automated source cleaning process. TrueClean cleans the source electrodes by redirecting the UV laser onto their surface and desorbing any contaminant material. This method is highly efficient and does not require source removal or venting.

Hyper-MS2

The MALDI-7090 sets a new standard in MS/MS acquisition. Several novel and exclusive technologies have been combined to create Hyper-MS² delivering:

• High resolution ion gating for accurate precursor ion selection
• Unparalleled MS/MS resolution achieved using patented axial spatial distribution focusing: ASDF.
• High and low energy fragmentation maximizing the amount of information extracted from a sample

High-resolution ion gate

The MALDI-7090 is equipped with a dual wire-grid high resolution ion gate.

Compounds of similar nominal mass may produce MS/MS spectra that contain fragment ions from several precursors if not gated correctly. However, the high-resolution ion gate in the MALDI-7090 allows the individual gating of species close in nominal mass thus producing distinct fragment ion spectra.

Axial Spatial Distribution Focusing – ASDF

ASDF is a Shimadzu patented technology that enables unparalleled resolution in MS/MS acquisitions. Through correction of the axial spatial distribution of the ions generated, the mass resolution is significantly increased and becomes essentially independent of the laser power used to ionize the sample.

With ASDF, the MALDI-7090 can achieve mass resolution of 10,000 FHWM – unobtainable through pulsed extraction and ion optics alone.

High- and low-energy fragmentation

• High-energy CID:

MS/MS fragmentation in the MALDI-7090 is true high-energy CID (HE-CID).

Ions enter the collision cell at 20keV extraction energy. Furthermore, collisions with helium rather than heavier gases (air or argon) result in the most efficient generation of ions only associated with HE-CID (e.g.: peptide side –chain and lipid backbone fragmentation).

MS/MS fragmentation is further enriched by retaining all of the metastable decay ions through the reflectron analyzer, maximizing the amount of information extracted from each sample.

• Low-energy fragmentation (metastable decay):

The MALDI-7090 can also be used in low-energy fragmentation mode without collision gas. Here the fragmentation relies on spontaneous metastable decay of the precursor and exhibits low-energy type ions.