MRI/RUI: Acquisition of a MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometer for Research and Education in Chemistry and Biochemistry

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With support from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, the Department of Chemistry at St. Cloud State University will acquire a Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption Ionization - Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF) Mass Spectrometer. This instrument will be used in a wide variety of studies, including a) the identification of molecular determinants of cellular sensitivity to cytostatic/cytotoxic agents that may be unique to tumor cells; b) the identification of genetic polymorphisms in human aldehyde dehydrogenases that will render differential cellular sensititivy to cytotoxic agents; c) characterization of electroactive polymers; and d) the study of precursor molecules used as dopant sources for fluorescent sol-gel glasses. In addition, MALDI MS will be a major component in a new laboratory curriculum for biophysical chemistry.Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry is the technique of choice for obtaining accurate molecular weights on molecules up to and over 300,000 daltons, with extremely high sensitivity. Use of a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer has therefore become a standard technique in most DNA/protein core facilities. The ability to obtain very accurate molecular weights of biological molecules is fundamental to all biological and biomedical research and essential in a modern research and training environment. These studies will have an impact in the areas of biophysical and materials chemistry.