Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry Quadrupole Time-of-Flight System - Project Summary Oregon State University is requesting funds for adding a trapped ion mobility spectrometry quadrupole time-of-flight (timsTOF) LC-MS system with MALDI imaging capability to advance biomedical research at Oregon State University (OSU) and in the State of Oregon. The new instrument will catalyze OSU's “ONE Health” research initiative, promoting collaborative and trans-disciplinary research in human, animal and environmental health to increase our knowledge of the underlying causes of human diseases, contribute to discovery of new diagnostic markers and innovative therapies. The proposed Bruker timsTOF fleX MS system will allow Oregon's research community - for the first time - to conduct MALDI imaging mass spectrometry and spatial “omics” to accelerate progress in ongoing projects related to the “One Health” paradigm. The requested equipment will enhance capabilities in small molecule omics by providing access to high-resolution ion mobility mass spectrometry and CCS determination, enabling compound identification and 4D “omics” (RT, mass, MS2 and CCS). Increased measurement sensitivity and the advanced timsPASEF acquisition mode will enable nano-scale LC-MS based “omics” for amount-limited samples and laser-capture microdissected tissues. An innovative HESI source will advance our capabilities to provide comprehensive plasma lipidomics. The proposed equipment will replace 12-year old qTOF systems in OSU's mass spectrometry center (OSU MSC). The OSU MSC has provided a collaborative research and inclusive training environment since 1973. As university core facility, the OSU MSC has institutional support from the research office and multiple colleges, which ensures a high level of financial and operational stability. The OSU MSC is directed by faculty with indefinite tenure. Two full time employees ensure a high level of technical competency and consistency in the maintenance and operation of the equipment, associated workflows and data management. Research associates provide support to research projects and assist in training of students and users. An internal oversight committee will coordinate use of the requested equipment and administration of policies. Research topics include metabolic diseases, vascular cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases, botanical supplements to promote resilience in aging and zebrafish as whole system model in toxicology. A pilot and feasibility program will promote the new measurement capabilities and MALDI imaging mass spectrometry. The new equipment will enhance statewide efforts of the major research universities, centers and institutions in Oregon to coordinate and foster inter-institutional research and training in the biomedical sciences.
