Simultaneous Ion Ejection in Mass Spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mass spectrometry techniques require lengthy detection cycles for molecules, limiting the number of molecules that can be detected simultaneously and increasing analysis time, which is a drawback in multiplexed assays and reducing sensitivity due to sequential detection methods.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves the simultaneous ejection and detection of ions characteristic of the target molecule, reducing data processing time and improving the signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for faster analysis and lower quantification limits by using an ion trap mass analyzer for simultaneous resonance and ejection of ions based on their m/z ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sequential detection methods are used in mass spectrometry, then detection accuracy is maintained, but analysis time increases and the number of molecules detectable in a single run is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple ion detection events that occur simultaneously within the ion trap into a single detection cycle. By trapping multiple ions with different m/z ratios and detecting them concurrently through coordinated ejection and signal measurement, the system merges what would traditionally be sequential detections into one simultaneous operation, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The ion trap maintains continuous trapping of multiple ions throughout the detection cycle, with only brief interruption during the ejection phase. This continuous action allows the system to maximize the utilization of detection time, keeping the system productive throughout the entire cycle rather than having idle periods between sequential detections
2Speed
If multiple ions are detected simultaneously, then analysis speed increases, but signal-to-noise ratio may deteriorate due to overlapping signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by ejecting ions in a controlled sequence based on their specific m/z ratios. Although multiple ions are trapped simultaneously, the ejection process is localized to specific ion groups with similar m/z characteristics, allowing each ion type to be detected with optimized signal quality. This selective, localized ejection prevents signal overlap while maintaining overall detection speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the ejection timing and parameters based on the specific ions present in the trap. By adapting the ejection sequence to the actual ion composition and using real-time signal monitoring, the system optimizes the detection of each ion type while maintaining simultaneous operation, thereby preserving signal-to-noise ratio despite the speed increase
3Device complexity
If sequential ion ejection and detection is performed, then data processing is simplified, but the detection cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary separation of ions by m/z ratio within the ion trap before ejection. This preliminary organization of ions allows for more efficient detection sequencing, where ions are ejected in optimized groups rather than strictly one-at-a-time. The preliminary action within the trap reduces the overall detection cycle time while keeping data processing manageable through pre-organized ion groups
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 approach significantly reduces analysis cycle times, enabling the detection of multiple molecules in a single run, enhances sensitivity, and lowers the quantification limits, making it suitable for a wide range of molecules including peptides, proteins, and other biological compounds.
Implementation Method 1
an ionization source intended to ionize the molecules present in the sample to be analyzed, i.e. to confer a positive or negative charge to these molecules
Implementation Method 2
a mass analyzer intended to separate the ionized molecules, or molecular ions, according to their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z)
Implementation Method 3
said at least two characteristic ions are simultaneously brought into resonance within said mass analyzer using radio frequencies, and said characteristic ions are simultaneously ejected from said mass analyzer
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for detecting at least one target molecule in a sample through mass spectrometry, wherein a) the molecules of the sample are ionized; b) the following steps (i) and (ii) are carried out n times, n being equal to 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4: (i) at least one ion obtained in the previous step is selected on the basis of the target molecule in a mass analyzer, and (ii) the thus-selected ion is fragmented in a fragmentation cell; c) at least two different ions obtained in step a) when n is zero, or in step b) when n is not zero, are trapped in a mass analyzer, the at least two thus-trapped ions having a mass/charge ratio m/z that is characteristic of the target molecule; d) the thus-trapped characteristic ions are ejected from the mass analyzer, and e) the ejected characteristic ions are detected by means of a detection device. The method of the invention is characterized in that the characteristic ions are ejected at the same time as step d) and detected at the same time as step e).