MALDI-ToF mass spectrometer

• Subject Area: Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
• Term: Funded in 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 548878964

The application concerns the replacement of a MALDI-ToF/ToF device installed in 2007. The device applied for is to be used primarily for the analysis of synthetic peptides, peptide mixtures and proteins, which will be used in the development of peptide- and protein-based diagnostics and therapeutics for obesity and obesity-associated diseases such as type II diabetes. The device will also be used in the development of novel peptide receptor ligands for tumor diagnostics and therapy, as well as the characterization of receptor-ligand interactions on a molecular basis through the identification of peptide fragments. In order to increase the biological stability and efficacy of peptide drug candidates, they are often modified with non-proteinogenic components such as dyes, pharmaceuticals, unnatural amino acids, etc. Technical support for the existing device was discontinued at the end of 2019, and the procurement of spare parts for this device is becoming increasingly difficult and cost-intensive. Frequent oil leaks from the backing pump have led to increasing downtimes in recent years. In the meantime, the laser has also lost so much power that the device can no longer be used effectively. In addition to the urgently needed repairs to the laser and vacuum system, the system for data acquisition and evaluation is very outdated. Thus, a replacement for the existing device is urgently needed that can take over the tasks and ensure ongoing research operations. The core facility of the Faculty of Life Sciences provides the necessary infrastructure for mass spectrometric analyses required in bioscientific research. The aim is to offer all users a prompt, flexible and cost-effective solution for their respective questions. The main users of the core facility are the various working groups of the Institute of Biochemistry and several projects of the Collaborative Research Centers.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: MALDI-ToF/ToF Massenspektrometriesystem
• Instrumentation Group: 1700 Massenspektrometer
• Applicant Institution: Universität Leipzig
• Leader: Professorin Dr. Annette G. Beck-Sickinger