BioZone Mass Spectrometry Facility

BioZone's Mass Spectrometry Facility serves the University of Toronto research community and external clients.

Modern mass spectrometers have exquisite accuracy, sensitivity, resolution, and range that allows for the precise identification of proteins, small molecules, and metabolites.

Founded in 2012, the BioZone MSF is a staff-operated lab that supports research programs within BioZone, other U of T labs, research hospitals, companies, and other academic institutions with customized, high-quality mass spectrometry services.

While our in-house applications focus on research in industrial and environmental biotechnology, we specialize in developing MS methods for hard-to-analyze samples in a range of other application areas, including biomedical and veterinary sciences.

BioZone Mass Spectrometry services

Small molecule analysis

Small molecule analysis involves accurate mass determination and/or quantification of analytes in a given sample.

Samples are analyzed, identified, and validated through comparison to chemical standards.

Examples of small molecule analytes include but are not limited to amino acids, fatty acids, organic acids, vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and short biopolymers.

Metabolomics

Metabolomics is the measurement of the unique "chemical fingerprint" resulting from cellular processes in an organism.

By observing changes in this fingerprint as a result of cellular perturbations (deletion, insertion, mutation, external stress), we can gain a better understanding of an organism's biological mechanisms and any associated phenotypes.

Proteomics

Proteomics involves the large-scale study of proteins produced in a given organism or cellular system.

By monitoring changes in expression, co-translational and post-translational modifications, and interactions, we can gain a better understanding of an organism's cellular processes.

Employing a "Bottom-up" approach, we can identify and validate protein identity following proteolytic cleavage.

Method development

We offer onsite preparation and extraction of samples for mass spectrometry analysis based upon the nature of the sample, and provide expert advice on method development using a wide range of specialized extraction, separation, and purification techniques, alongside sample-specific Mass Spec detection methods suitable for each client's needs.

BioZone MSF Equipment

Thermo Q-Exactive hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap MS

The Thermo Q-Exactive is a hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometer capable of generating high resolution, accurate mass (HRAM) data.

The Q-Exactive is ideal for qualitative and quantitative metabolomics or small molecule studies as well as for proteomics studies (Bottom-up).

Capable of being operated in both positive and negative ionization modes, the Q-Exactive provides a robust and versatile platform with the ability to be used with a multitude of ionization sources (ESI, HESI II, nano-ESI, and APCI).

It can be further coupled to either a Dionex Ultimate 3000 UHPLC system or a Proxeon Easy-nLC 1000 for chromatographic separation of samples prior to MS analysis.

Mass Range: 50-6000 (m/z)
Max Resolving Power: 140k @ m/z 200
Scan rate: up to 12Hz
Mass Accuracy: Internal < 1ppm, External <3ppm
Sensitivity: Full MS (500fg Buspirone, S/N 100:1), SIM (50fg Buspirone, SN 100:1)
Dynamic Range: 4000:1
MS data acquisition: Full MS/SIM/All Ion fragmentation in HCD
Ion sources: ESI, HESI II, nano-ESI, APCI
Chromatography systems: Dionex Ultimate 3000, Proxeon Easy-nLC 1000

Dionex ICS-5000+ hybrid HPIC

The Dionex ICS-5000+ Hybrid HPIC is a hybrid capillary and standard/microbore chromatography system.

The ICS-5000+ is ideal for qualitative and quantitative small molecule studies in high matrix conditions.

Capable of being operated in tandem with either a Dionex Ultimate 3000 diode array detector or a Shodex RI-101 refractive index detector, the ICS-5000+ provides a robust and versatile platform for chromatographic separation of samples prior to either UV-Vis or RI detection.

Compatible Detectors:
Ultimate 3000 Diode Array Detector (UV-Vis) & Shodex RI-101 (Refractive Index)

Agilent 7000D GC/TQ GC-Mass Spectrometer

The Agilent 7000D GC/TQ GC-MS is a versatile gas chromatograph coupled to a triple-quad mass spectrometry detector.

It is equipped with dual columns and an autosampler, and can handle traditional liquid, headspace sampling, and solid-phase extracted samples, making it ideal for industrial and environmental samples.

BioZone MSF Rates and Procedures

University of Toronto users

Per-sample charges (high-resolution MS, ESI MS/MS, GC-MS): $85/sample
Hourly rate for multiple samples (direct injection and LC-MS): $85-125/hour
Hourly rate for UV-HPLC: $45/hour
A method development fee of $100 may apply for new or non-standard methods.

External users

Per-sample charges (high-resolution MS, ESI MS/MS, GC-MS): $170/sample
Hourly rate for multiple samples (direct injection and LC-MS): $170/hour
Hourly rate for UV-HPLC: $75/hour
A method development fee of $100 may apply for new or non-standard methods.

Sample drop-off process

Please contact us in advance of sample drop-off to discuss your needs.

Consultations can take place via e-mail or Microsoft Teams, or through in-person meetings.

Samples may be dropped off in-person at the Wallberg Building, or shipped to 200 College Street, Room 405, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3E5 -- care of Robert Flick.