NIR Fluorescence MALDI Mass Spectrometer Targeted Tissue Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry methods require extensive analysis time due to the need to emit a laser to all parts of the tissue, causing interference from auto-fluorescence and making it difficult to visualize and analyze specific regions within biological tissues effectively.
Innovation Solution
Integration of Near InfraRed (NIR) fluorescence imaging with MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, utilizing a plate with a fluorescent material and matrix for ionization, allowing for precise fluorescence imaging and targeted laser emission to specific regions, reducing interference and analysis time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a laser is emitted to all parts of the tissue for mass spectrometry, then complete tissue analysis is achieved, but analysis time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing fluorescence imaging before mass spectrometry analysis to identify and mark regions of interest. This preliminary step allows the subsequent laser irradiation to be targeted only at specific areas rather than the entire tissue, thereby reducing analysis time while maintaining comprehensive analysis of relevant regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by transitioning from uniform whole-tissue analysis to localized targeted analysis. Fluorescence markers enable differentiation of specific regions (e.g., tumor vs. normal tissue), allowing the mass spectrometry laser to be applied selectively to areas requiring detailed analysis, thus optimizing the balance between completeness and time efficiency.
2Loss of information
If conventional fluorescence imaging is used, then tissue visualization is achieved, but fluorescence interference from matrix and auto-fluorescence reduces precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) matrix as a mediator between the fluorescent marker and the detection system. The matrix enables selective excitation and detection of fluorescent signals while suppressing background auto-fluorescence and matrix interference, thereby improving fluorescence image precision without sacrificing visualization capability.
3Productivity
If NIR fluorescence imaging is integrated with MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, then analysis efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating NIR fluorescence imaging and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry into a single unified system. The fluorescence imaging unit and mass spectrometry unit share common components such as the laser source, sample stage, and control system, allowing seamless transition between imaging and analysis modes while reducing operational complexity despite the advanced functionality.
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
Enables precise fluorescence imaging and efficient mass spectrometry with minimal interference, allowing for faster analysis of specific tissue regions and reducing the complexity of matching optical and mass images, enhancing the applicability in pharmacokinetics and disease research.
Implementation Method 1
a fluorescent material having an excitation wavelength of an NIR wavelength band
Implementation Method 2
Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry
Implementation Method 3
a laser is emitted to the tissue to ionize materials in the tissue
Implementation Method 4
Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry
Data Source
AI summary
A mass spectrometer using near infrared (NIR) fluorescence can comprise: a plate formed such that a sample, which includes a matrix for ionization and a fluorescent material having an excitation wavelength of an NIR wavelength band, is loaded thereon; a fluorescence detection unit formed so as to acquire a fluorescence image by using the fluorescent material from the sample on the plate; a light emission unit formed so as to emit a laser beam for ionization at the sample on the plate; and an ion detection unit formed so as to detect, by using the laser beam, ions generated from the sample. By using the NIR fluorescence, fluorescence interference due to a matrix used for MALDI imaging can be excluded even after coating the matrix, and since fluorescence interference due to auto-fluorescence inside tissue is low, fluorescence can be measured even for a thick sample.