Abstract: The present invention provides for the simultaneous assessment of a plurality of tissue regions or microregions, the benefit being homogeneity of the sampling, both in terms of tissue content and timing. Discrete regions of a tissue sample, such as those demarcated by microwells formed within the tissue itself or tissue plugs removed from the tissue in a spatially referenced fashion, can be treated with one or more physical or chemical treatments to liberate target molecules of interest. Subsequent analysis of said target molecules by, e.g., mass spectroscopy, permits identification of a variety of biological parameters, including those associated with disease or therapy.

Abstract: Cleavable compositions and methods of use especially in MALDI MS analysis of hydrophobic proteins.

Abstract: A device for pre-concentration and purification of analytes from biological samples, such as human serum, to be analyzed by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry (MALDI MS) and methods of use thereof are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a proteomic approach to classifying glomerular tissue as normal, non-sclerotic or sclerotic. In particular, the proteomic approach may employ laser capture microdissection followed by MALDI-TOF. A particular target of interest that is highly relevant in distinguishing such tissues is thymosin ?4.

Abstract: Provided is a method of transporting fluid which involves acoustic ejection into a small opening. The opening may be, for example, the inlet opening of a sample vessel. Alternatively, it may be an opening in a microfluidic device. The ejection is typically, but not necessarily carried out through the application of focused acoustic energy. The fluid being transported typically comprises a moiety of interest for analysis or further processing, which may be a biomolecule. The volumes of transported fluid may be in the nanoliter or picoliter range. Ejection may occur from very small volumes and the ejected droplet may carry away a significant fraction of the volume from which ejection occurs.

Abstract: Analytical methods and devices are disclosed for separating low abundance analytes by electrophoretically driving the analytes through a sieving matrix to first remove high molecular weight species. Subsequently the remaining low abundance analytes are electrophoretically focused onto a capture membrane where the analytes become bound within a small capture site. After this step the capture membrane may be allowed to dry and then attached to a conductive MALDI sample plate.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for analyzing proteins and other biological materials and xenobiotics within a sample. A specimen is generated, which may include an energy absorbent matrix. The specimen is struck with laser beams such that the specimen releases proteins. The atomic mass of the released proteins over a range of atomic masses is measured. An atomic mass window of interest within the range of atomic masses is analyzed to determine the spatial arrangement of specific proteins within the sample, and those specific proteins are identified as a function of the spatial arrangement. By analyzing the proteins, one may monitor and classify disease within a sample.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for analyzing proteins and other biological materials and xenobiotics within a sample. A specimen is generated, which may include an energy absorbent matrix. The specimen is struck with laser beams such that the specimen releases proteins. The atomic mass of the released proteins over a range of atomic masses is measured. An atomic mass window of interest within the range of atomic masses is analyzed to determine the spatial arrangement of specific proteins within the sample, and those specific proteins are identified as a function of the spatial arrangement. By analyzing the proteins, one may monitor and classify disease within a sample.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for analyzing proteins and other biological materials and xenobiotics within a sample. A specimen is generated, which may include an energy absorbent matrix. The specimen is struck with laser beams such that the specimen releases proteins. The atomic mass of the released proteins over a range of atomic masses is measured. An atomic mass window of interest within the range of atomic masses is analyzed to determine the spatial arrangement of specific proteins within the sample, and those specific proteins are identified as a function of the spatial arrangement. By analyzing the proteins, one may monitor and classify disease within a sample.