Mass Spectrometry Correction Using Matrix Ions Over Retention Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mass spectrometry methods face challenges in accurately analyzing samples with complex matrices due to mass to charge ratio drift, high probability of mass interference, and suppression of signal by high concentrations of matrix ions.
Innovation Solution
A method of mass spectrometry that involves providing a library of matrix data comprising physico-chemical properties of matrix components as a function of retention time, chromatographically separating a sample, analyzing it at multiple retention times, and calculating error values based on comparisons with the matrix data to improve error analysis and maintain mass accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If continuous background ions are used to correct for mass to charge ratio drift, then mass accuracy is improved, but the statistical precision is reduced and confidence in mass assignment is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter used for correction from continuous background ions to discrete matrix ions with known mass-to-charge ratios. By using matrix ions that are naturally present in the sample and have well-defined masses, the system achieves both high mass accuracy and high confidence in mass assignment, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and reliability.
2Measurement precision
If internal reference compounds are used for mass correction, then mass accuracy is improved, but the probability of mass interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses matrix ions that are naturally present in the sample itself rather than adding external reference compounds. The sample's own matrix components serve as the correction reference, eliminating the need for additional substances and thereby avoiding the mass interference that would result from introducing external reference compounds into the complex matrix.
3Measurement precision
If lock mass ions are introduced to maintain mass accuracy, then mass drift correction is improved, but data collection time is reduced and instrument operation is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for external lock mass ions by using matrix ions naturally present in the sample for mass correction. This self-service approach allows continuous data collection without interruptions for lock mass introduction, maximizing productivity while maintaining mass accuracy through the use of endogenous matrix components as correction references.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enhances the accuracy of mass analysis by using matrix components to calculate error values, thereby maintaining mass accuracy without the need for additional lock mass ions, which simplifies instrument operation and maximizes data collection time.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention relates generally to mass spectrometry and in particular to mass spectrometers and methods of mass spectrometry
Implementation Method 2
Chromatographic techniques such as liquid chromatography ('LC') and gas chromatography ('GC') coupled with mass spectrometry are routinely used to separate the analyte from the matrix components
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method of mass spectrometry comprising the steps of: providing a library of matrix data, said matrix data comprising one or more physico-chemical properties of one or more matrix components as a function of retention time; chromatographically separating a sample, said sample containing at least some of said matrix components and one or more analyte components; analysing said sample at a plurality of retention times to obtain sample data, said sample data comprising one or more physico-chemical properties of one or more sample components as a function of retention time; and calculating one or more error values as a function of retention time based on a comparison between said sample data and said matrix data.