Evolution in Mass Spectrometry: Simplifying Workflows for Routine Testing

insights from industryJeff ZondermanSenior Vice PresidentBruker Applied Mass Spectrometry

In this interview, AZoM speaks to Jeff Zonderman from Bruker Applied Mass Spectrometry about the future of mass spectrometry, and the tools and technologies that will transform research.

Could you provide some insights into your background and how you became involved in developing mass spectrometry solutions?

I am Jeff Zonderman, Senior Vice President of the Applied Mass Spectrometry Division of Bruker I have been involved in mass spectrometry and chromatography for over 30 years.

Initially, I worked as a DNA synthesis chemist. I began using mass spectrometry, specifically MALDI mass spectrometry, to analyze oligonucleotides for quality control instead of chromatography, which I found much easier. As a synthetic chemist, I quickly developed a strong interest in mass spectrometry and the valuable information it provided.

My career path eventually led me into mass spectrometry sales, where I worked across various areas and technologies.

I then became CEO of IonSense, which pioneered ambient ionization. Three years ago, Bruker acquired IonSense and its technology; Direct Analysis in Real-Time (DART) mass spectrometry.

As Senior Vice President of Bruker Applied MS, what are the key objectives driving the development of products like the EVOQ DART-TQ⁺? How does this instrument address the challenges faced in routine testing?

We established our new division, Bruker Applied Mass Spectrometry, to address the specific needs of the applied markets for mass spectrometers. Bruker has already followed a similar path with the MALDI Biotyper , transforming a mass spectrometer by simplifying the workflow, removing chromatography, and creating the most widely used clinical mass spectrometer on the market.

We are taking a similar approach for our new Bruker Applied MS division, focusing on technologies like triple quadrupole  and QTOF and simplifying workflows. One of our main objectives is to develop products that streamline workflows.

We aim to develop chromatography-free workflows that are simpler, more robust and sustainable by reducing large amounts of organic waste.

This simplification also benefits users in applied markets who may not be experts in mass spectrometry, enabling broader access to the technology.

The EVOQ DART-TQ⁺ is the first triple quadrupole MS system designed for DART ion source plug-and-play operation. What benefits does this offer for routine laboratory environments, and how does this compare to traditional workflows?

With DART integrated into a quantitative workflow and chromatography removed, we address several key laboratory areas. First, eliminating chromatography removes much of the complexity associated with maintaining LC instrument uptime and user training, greatly simplifying the workflow.

Removing the chromatography step with DART technology significantly reduces the cost of ownership, including the costs associated with consumables and operational waste.

Reducing organic solvent use is also a significant benefit, supporting Bruker’s commitment to sustainability, as many companies prioritize minimizing environmental impact today.

The EVOQ DART-TQ⁺ is highlighted for its chromatography-free workflows. Could you explain how the instrument achieves these workflows and the key technological advancements enable it?

The primary technological advancement in the EVOQ DART-TQ⁺, DART is an ambient ionization technique that ionizes samples with a gas flow instead of a liquid flow.

This approach makes the workflow far more robust and significantly faster. We eliminate the separation time by removing chromatography, allowing for high-throughput quantitative analysis. Without chromatography, analysis time for quantifying target analytes goes from minutes to seconds.

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The EVOQ DART-TQ⁺ allows for quick switching to LCMS. Why is this ability important, and how does it compare to conventional methods?

While we emphasize a chromatography-free approach, the specific application must be considered. Some workflows will still require chromatography.

The EVOQ DART-TQ⁺ is an excellent triple quadrupole mass spectrometer with and without DART, offering high sensitivity, selectivity, and robustness in electrospray mode. It is unlikely that every method will become chromatography-free overnight; this is an ongoing process.

DART is very effective for targeted, high-throughput assays, but some applications still need chromatography. The EVOQ DART-TQ⁺ system allows easy switching between DART and LCMS modes, with ion source changes taking only a minute or so. Thus, the system provides the flexibility to leverage both techniques as needed.

In addition to lowering the cost per sample, does the chromatography-free workflow provide other financial benefits?

Yes. Eliminating LC system maintenance and downtime as well as another major financial benefit is eliminating high disposal costs for organic waste. This aligns with a significant demand from our customers, who increasingly seek evidence that we prioritize sustainability as a company.

Bruker is strongly committed to ESG and sustainability initiatives, and this reduction in waste from routine workflows is a clear example.

Chromatography-based mass spectrometry processes typically generate large amounts of organic waste, but by removing chromatography, we can minimize that waste, demonstrating our dedication to enhancing the sustainability of our products.

Can we expect to see other chromatography-free frameworks at Bruker in other application areas?

The triple quadrupole system was our first fully integrated product to showcase DART technology after Bruker acquired IonSense. However, we utilize DART across various mass spectrometers.

For instance, we integrate DART with our QTOF systems and timsTOF technology, which is especially exciting. In some applications, separation—such as the separation of isomers—may still be necessary. By pairing DART with timsTOF ion mobility, we are developing new, highly effective workflows. Ion mobility can often serve as a substitute for chromatography in achieving separation.

This approach also allows us to move beyond quantitative methods and routine analysis in triple quads to platforms with ion mobility. The timsTOF system is a prime example of this advancement.

Image Credit: Bruker Biospin

You have emphasized the importance of making routine testing easier and more cost-effective. Besides the instrumentation advances you have discussed, what other areas of development are Bruker Applied MS working on to support customers?

We are focusing on all areas of the workflow. We have developed software for targeted and untargeted database searching and implementation for quantitative mass spectrometry.

This backend software includes databases and processing tools. We also invest in the front end by developing kits and forming partnerships with companies such as Pinpoint Testing, a forensics toxicology firm, to provide complete workflow solutions. We are also enhancing automation systems to streamline sample extraction and spotting onto our sample screens, allowing for efficient sample handling in the mass spectrometer.

In summary, we are making strategic investments across the entire workflow, including kit development, partnerships, front-end automation, and integration of DART and other techniques with our mass spectrometers. Ultimately, the goal is to deliver quick, cost-effective, and reliable reporting.

What exciting plans does Bruker Applied MS have in the pipeline?

Several exciting developments are underway, particularly around integrating DART technology and other advanced techniques with our mass spectrometers to create complete workflows.

I am especially enthusiastic about the potential of combining DART ion mobility with our timsTOF for a range of applications and the DART triple quad system for high-throughput quantitative analysis. Bruker is investing heavily in the applied markets, so you can expect many future innovations.

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About the Speaker

Jeffrey Zonderman serves as the Senior Vice President of Bruker Applied Mass Spectrometry, a new division of the company focused on providing mass spectrometry-based solutions for the applied market segments such as forensics, food, environmental, industrial/polymer, and clinical research. Jeffrey graduated from Northeastern University with a bachelor’s in biology and has been involved in mass spectrometry and chromatography for over 30 years. Before joining Bruker, Jeffrey worked in applications, sales/marketing and general management roles. His previous position was CEO of IonSense Inc, a company focusing on ambient ionization technology and commercialized DART (Direct Analysis in Real Time) technology. As Senior VP of Bruker Applied MS, Jeffrey looks to expand the applications of DART technology, amongst others, for chromatography-free mass spectrometry-based workflows.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Bruker.

For more information on this source, please visit Bruker.