The Thermo Scientific Prelude SPLC system has been made accessible to more researchers.
The system is designed to make analysis of target compounds in complex biological matrices routine for clinical research and forensic toxicology laboratories.
LC-MS/MS offers significant advantages in selectivity and quantitative accuracy over immunoassays and other analytical techniques, according to numerous published studies.
However, Thermo Fisher Scientific “Voice of the Customer” surveys indicate that many clinical researchers consider the need for specialised mass spectrometry expertise a barrier to adopting this powerful technology.
The Prelude SPLC sample preparation and liquid chromatography system is designed to work seamlessly with Thermo Scientific mass spectrometers such as the Thermo Scientific TSQ Vantage triple-stage quadrupole instrument.
The TSQ Vantage system is known for its very high sensitivity and low noise, enabling quantitative analysis and positive identification of drugs, drug metabolites and steroids in biological samples.
The Prelude SPLC system is designed to enhance the cost effectiveness of LC-MS/MS instrumentation by automating sample preparation and increasing mass spectrometer throughput.
Automation can minimise variability inherent in manual sample preparation procedures while also reducing sample preparation time and effort.
Thermo Scientific TurboFlow technology is designed to negate problems caused by sample matrix interference while capturing analytes of interest.
This level of sample clean-up can enhance MS quantitative analysis by reducing ion suppression. Contamination of the mass spectrometer ion source can also be reduced, minimizing maintenance requirements.
Ease of use is enhanced by Thermo Scientific TraceFinder software, which provides a single, easy-to-learn interface for both the LC and MS functions. These include instrument control, data acquisition, data processing and reporting.
Thermo Scientific Quick Start methods are designed to facilitate implementation of LC/MS for users who may not be mass spectrometry experts. Once a method is loaded, users can begin running samples with as few as six clicks of the mouse.
The Prelude SPLC system software features a remote instrument monitoring and diagnostics capability, designed to reduce the need for on-site troubleshooting skills. Thermo Scientific technicians can pinpoint hardware problems online.
Features overview:
- Simplified operation means an expert operator is not required
- TurboFlow Technology reduces sample preparation time and reagent costs
- High-efficiency methods reduce solvent consumption
- Chromatographic multiplexing maximises mass spectrometer utilization and sample throughput
- Robustness and reliability are designed in to minimize maintenance costs
- Optional remote diagnostics ensure rapid resolution to any problems that arise