Masonic Cancer Center
Mass Spectrometry Laboratory
Who We Are
The Mass Spectrometry Laboratory is the principal component of the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center's Analytical Biochemistry Shared Resource.
The laboratory provides researchers with state-of-the-art instruments and highly experienced personnel in support of the development and use of qualitative and quantitative assays for the detection of a broad range of analytes in a variety of biological specimens and physiologic fluids.
Mission Statement
We work closely with our users to successfully perform the analysis they require to support their research, within the capabilities of the laboratory instrumentation and the staff's expertise. The laboratory has developed a wide range of capabilities over the course of its history and we work to assure our users have access to state-of-the-art analytical tools and data analysis tools to support the ever-increasing analytical power of modern mass spectrometry.
Operating Model
We operate as an open-access core laboratory with users encouraged to run their own samples with the advice and assistance of our personnel. This collaborative model consists of:
1) Training of users, both on instrument usage and data analysis, to ensure that users are capable of running and analyze their samples.
2) Working with users to develop the best analytical methods and data analysis approaches to ensure support to all aspects of the analytical workflow.
3) Supporting the users by performing all instrument calibration, maintenance, repair, and problem troubleshooting.
The collegial spirit of our core results in the contribution to a wide range of projects coming from and contributing to the broad set of our staff. This results in unique expertise developed over the years combined to a continuous growth coming from constant engagement in a large range of projects.
Priority to instrument time and staff is given to Masonic Cancer Center members.
Excess instrument time is available to other members of the University system and researchers outside the university.
Analysis Options
Intact proteins (including antibodies)
Oligonucleotides (including dsDNA)
Metabolomics/Lipidomics (under development)
Instrumentation Types
LC-MSn
· Triple Quadrupoles and Ion Traps (Low Resolution/Nominal Mass)
· Hybrid Orbitraps (High Resolution/Accurate Mass)
· Nanospray and Conventional Electrospray Ionization
· APCI Ionization
· UPLC flow rates from 50 nl/min - 1 ml/min
GC-MS2
· Electron Impact and Chemical Ionization Capabilities
ICP-MS
