iMScope QT Imaging Mass Microscope from Shimadzu

The iMScope QT Imaging Mass Microscope is a combination of an optical microscope and an AP-MALDI ion source enabling mass spectrometry imaging capabilities in combination with a Q-TOF LCMS-9030 system.

The iMScope QT allows for the identification of molecules in a tissue region area immediately after microscopy. This gives qualitative information on the morphology, chemical composition and chemical distribution of a sample. Using the capabilities of the LCMS-9030, the iMScope offers MALDI-MS imaging with high spatial resolution, high mass resolution, and MS/MS performance. The iMScope QT unit can be disconnected from the LCMS-9030 to perform LC-MS experiments, thus enabling the determination of a chemical species’ spatial distribution as well as its quantitation.

Features:

• Optical imaging with mass spectrometry imaging – The optical image observation position can be directly analyzed using AP-MALDI, and the MS image can be overlaid on top of the optical image using IMAGEREVEAL software
• High-spatial resolution mass spectrometry imaging
• Mass spectrometry imaging accurately aligned with optical observation images
• Generation of highly specific images of the molecular structure of target molecules
• High-speed data acquisition – Nd:YAG laser, which fires at 20 kHz, enables acquisition speeds of up to 50 pixels/second
• Easy switching between imaging analysis and LC/MS analysis – Rugged design for fast switching between imaging iMScope QT and Q-TOF LCMS
• Maintain high mass accuracy over a long period of time without recalibration

Users can build a comprehensive imaging solution with Shimadzu’s powerful, easy-to-use pretreatment solutions and data analysis software. The iMLayer AERO automatic sprayer and iMLayer matrix vapor deposition system enable more reliable pretreatment that leads to higher sensitivity and higher spatial resolution. IMAGEREVEAL software is a powerful solution for seamless analysis of large datasets because it enables multiple analysis modes and data processing in as few as three steps. The combination of the iMScope QT with these tools makes Shimadzu the only company providing solutions for all three phases of mass spectrometry imaging.