Orbitrap infers m/z from the oscillation frequency of ions in the orbital trap, reaching resolutions in the hundred-thousands and mass accuracy at the ppm level, able to distinguish isobaric molecules by accurate mass in complex tissues. It is especially critical for spatial metabolomics research requiring both 'accurate localization + accurate identification'.
Step-by-step imaging acquisition and Orbitrap's high-resolution acquisition can work synergistically: each pixel obtains a high-mass-accuracy full spectrum, facilitating subsequent ion-image extraction at exact m/z and reducing misjudgment from mass overlap.
To connect an imaging source to an Orbitrap host instrument, efficient transmission and timing synchronization of ions from the ambient/vacuum interface to the orbital trap must be ensured, and the coordinate-spectrum reconstruction of the imaging software must be matched. The model-by-model design of Neo-Source LDPI/DPI is precisely for interface compatibility with mainstream host instruments containing Orbitrap.
It is recommended to validate resolution, mass accuracy and image repeatability with your organization's typical samples before finalizing an expansion plan. The manufacturer should provide a compatible model list and standard-format export support.
Orbitrap imaging suits spatial metabolomics and lipidomics with high demands on mass accuracy; if high throughput and speed are more valued, TOF-class host instruments are more suitable. The target determines the analyzer choice, while adapting an imaging source (LDPI/DPI) enables an existing Orbitrap host instrument to gain imaging capability.
For teams already owning an Orbitrap host instrument, externally connecting Neo-Source LDPI/DPI is a low-cost path to expand high-resolution imaging, enabling matrix-free or high-sensitivity spatial analysis without replacing the host instrument.
Matrix-free:No organic matrix spraying required; m/z>=70 low background, well suited to small-molecule drugs and metabolites
Ambient operation:Works in open ambient environment; simplified sample preparation; supports near in-situ / in-vivo analysis
Resolution:2-3 um spatial resolution, among the leading in the industry, reaching single-cell / subcellular scale
Modular compatibility:External add-on design; model-by-model compatibility with Agilent / SCIEX / Thermo mainstream MS hosts
To obtain detailed specifications, compatible models, or a quotation for the MSI LDPI / DPI full series imaging ion sources, visit the Neo-Source official website, or contact the official team for compatibility advice tailored to your mass spectrometer (Agilent / SCIEX / Thermo and other mainstream MS).