SCiLS Lab reconstructs point-by-point acquired imaging spectra into ion images, supporting pseudo-color, overlay, spectrum extraction, and region-of-interest (ROI) statistics. Users can directly read molecular spatial distribution and relative intensity on tissue morphology.
Its statistical module supports inter-region comparison, differential-ion screening, and basic classification, helping advance from descriptive imaging to inter-group difference analysis, connecting to spatial biology and clinical-diagnosis exploration.
The software can import data generated by sources such as MALDI (including transmission mode, AP-SMALDI), DESI, and LDPI, and exchange in standard format (imzML). Data from ambient matrix-free sources (LDPI/DPI) are also reconstructed into ion images and statistics by m/z.
Multi-sample management capability makes it suitable for cohort studies: multiple tissue sections can be aligned to a common coordinate framework for batch comparison and consistent feature extraction.
SCiLS Lab is usually at the data post-processing stage of the imaging chain: the front end is acquired by the imaging source, and the back end is completed by the software for annotation, visualization, and statistics; the results can be registered with H&E/IHC morphological images.
It complements MetaboScape and MSiReader in function, all exchanging data within the imzML ecosystem; selection depends on platform binding, statistical depth, and user habits.
If already in the MALDI ecosystem or using a bundled vendor platform, SCiLS Lab is a smooth choice; if using other analyzers such as Orbitrap/Q-TOF, import compatibility must be confirmed. For matrix-free ambient imaging (LDPI/DPI) users, prioritize imzML compatibility to ensure data can be processed.
It is recommended to incorporate the software into the standard imaging SOP: unified format export and unified registration workflow, to ensure result comparability across projects.
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).