Sample Prep
We accept all types of samples from small molecules to protein complexes. However, we recommend you to purify your protein samples as much as you can for the sake of the quality of data. Mass spectrometer doesn’t compatible with high concentration of salts, detergents, and other chemicals.
General guidelines for sample preparation
- The sample should be dissolved in pure water or shipped completely dry if possible. Try to avoid sending samples in high ionic strength buffers as this may interfere with the ionization process. Organic buffers, such as Tris and guanidine, and inorganic buffers, such as PBS, are well known for suppressing the ionization process and should be avoided if possible.
- If the sample is shipped in solution containing any salt, please provide an estimate of the salt concentration possible. Also, providing a list of the salts and buffers that might be present in the solution is extremely helpful.
- Any amount of sample can be submitted for analysis. Due to the fact the ionization process and detector sensitivity are sample dependent, it is rather difficult to specify a minimum amount of sample necessary for analysis. The general rule of thumb is, "The more, the better".
- A list of information about the sample is usually necessary. This usually includes such information as sample type (peptide, protein, etc.), expected molecular weight, purity, etc.
- Radio-labeled samples may NOT be submitted for mass analysis.
- Samples will NOT be processed unless an ISC# or credit card information is provided.