Imaging mass spectrometry directly detects both natural and synthetic molecules in tissue sections and measures mass spectra while preserving location information associated with the tissue section.
Two-dimensional distributions of specific molecules are then visualized by combining the position information of each mass spectrum and the signal intensity for specific ions in the mass spectrum. (MS imaging).

High Spatial Resolution

The iMScope TRIO imaging mass microscope is an instrument designed specifically for imaging mass spectrometry. It represents a hybrid type microscope that combines both an optical microscope and a mass spectrometer. iMScope TRIO now enables the direct identification of various substances in tissue samples, expanding potential research opportunities in a wide variety of fields.

The high resolution imaging offered by optical microscopes is essential not only for pharmacokinetic analysis, but also for toxicity testing and toxicity mechanism analysis. Analysis of retina and skin requires high spatial resolution imaging.
 

High Spatial Resolution Imaging of Mouse Skin

In this experiment, the fat in rat skin was visualized. High spatial resolution imaging clearly showed localization of ceramide in the horny layer and phosphatidylcholine (PC) in the sebaceous gland.

In pharmacokinetic analysis, the iMScope TRIO provides simultaneous mapping of the distribution of unchanged and metabolized drugs in a single measurement without any labeling. The laser diameter used during mass spectrometry imaging with the iMScope TRIO ranges continuously from 5 to 200 µm, offering low to high spatial resolution. This helps ensure that analyzes are performed as efficiently as possible.

Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Mouse with Olaparib Administered

Using a mouse administered with olaparib, the pharmacokinetic status of the tumor was visualized. In this way, imaging mass spectrometry is being utilized even in the clinical trial phase of drug discovery, rather than only during basic research.

Overlaying Optical and MS Images

Overlaying MS images and optical microscope morphological images reveals the difference between the amounts of

specific molecules in each minute organ and can relate molecular distribution to the biological functions of an organelle and morphological changes.

Industrial Fields

In industrial fields, various surface inspection technologies are widely used to ensure stable production of high quality products. Imaging mass spectrometry is capable of analyzing various contaminants that cannot be detected by conventional surface inspection methods, and it is possible to gain new knowledge for higher quality production.
An example using IC chip is shown. A wide variety of optical images and mass spectrometry imaging technologies are used to support cutting-edge research.