Abstract: An integrated proteomics sample preparation device and method for in-gel digestion of proteins and for desalting and concentrating samples prior to further analysis such as by MALDI TOF and/or electro-spray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry. The device and method of the present invention allow for digestion, desalting and concentration of sample prior to analysis. More specifically, the device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of wells in fluid communication with a an outlet or drainage opening containing a three dimensional structure comprising a plurality of sorptive particles entrapped in a porous polymer matrix so as to form a device capable of carrying out solid phase extraction. In a preferred embodiment, the wells are configured so as to prevent a sample carrier present in the wells from clogging the outlet when subjected to a driving force such as vacuum.

Abstract: A method for casting-in-place composite and/or non-filled structures which are useful as sorptive or reactive media or for size-based separations. Any particular housing size or configuration can be used, and the inclusion of a large amount of adsorptive particles in polymer is achieved while still maintaining the membrane three dimensional structure. In a first preferred embodiment, the composite structures comprise particles entrapped within a porous polymeric substrate, and are cast in-place into a housing such as a pipette tip, thereby providing an effective platform for micromass handling. With the appropriate selection of particle chemistry, virtually any separation or purification operation can be conducted, including selective bind/elute chromatography operations, on sample mass loads less than 1 microgram in volumes of a few microliters, as well as larger mass loads and volumes. The present invention also encompasses the composite structures as well as sample preparation devices containing the same.

Abstract: Sample presentation device for mass spectrometry, preferably MALDI time-of-flight spectrometry. The sample presentation device of the present invention is composed of a material that has surface electrical conductivity. The surface of the sample presentation device can be rendered electrically conductive in a variety of ways.

Abstract: A method for casting-in-place composite and/or non-filled structures which are useful as sorptive or reactive media or for size-based separations. Any particular housing size or configuration can be used, and the inclusion of a large amount of adsorptive particles in polymer is achieved while still maintaining the membrane three dimensional structure. In a first preferred embodiment, the composite structures comprise particles entrapped within a porous polymeric substrate, and are cast in-place into a housing such as a pipette tip, thereby providing an effective platform for micromass handling. With the appropriate selection of particle chemistry, virtually any separation or purification operation can be conducted, including selective bind/elute chromatography operations, on sample mass loads less than 1 microgram in volumes of a few microliters, as well as larger mass loads' and volumes. The present invention also encompasses the composite structures as well as sample preparation devices containing the same.

Abstract: A method for casting-in-place composite and/or non-filled structures which are useful as sorptive or reactive media or for size-based separations. Any particular housing size or configuration can be used, and the inclusion of a large amount of adsorptive particles in polymer is achieved while still maintaining the membrane three dimensional structure. In a first preferred embodiment, the composite structures comprise particles entrapped within a porous polymeric substrate, and are cast in-place into a housing such as a pipette tip, thereby providing an effective platform for micromass handling. With the appropriate selection of particle chemistry, virtually any separation or purification operation can be conducted, including selective bind/elute chromatography operations, on sample mass loads less than 1 microgram in volumes of a few microliters, as well as larger mass loads and volumes. The present invention also encompasses the composite structures as well as sample preparation devices containing the same.

Abstract: A method for casting-in-place composite and/or non-filled structures which are useful as sorptive or reactive media or for size-based separations. Any particular housing size or configuration can be used, and the inclusion of a large amount of adsorptive particles in polymer is achieved while still maintaining the membrane three dimensional structure. In a first preferred embodiment, the composite structures comprise particles entrapped within a porous polymeric substrate, and are cast in-place into a housing such as a pipette tip, thereby providing an effective platform for micromass handling. With the appropriate selection of particle chemistry, virtually any separation or purification operation can be conducted, including selective bind/elute chromatography operations, on sample mass loads less than 1 microgram in volumes of a few microliters, as well as larger mass loads and volumes. The present invention also encompasses the composite structures as well as sample preparation devices containing the same.

Abstract: Adsorptive sample preparation device and method effective for concentrating, desalting and/or purifying biomolecules. An adsorptive membrane is used to bind biomolecules, which biomolecules can then be eluted with a suitable desorption agent. In a preferred form, the adsorptive filter means is a particle-laden semipermeable membrane having at least one of its major surfaces, preferably both of its major surfaces, covered with a thin fabric. In the method of the invention for concentrating biomolecules or desalting or purify from a solution, the sample reservoir of the above-described adsorptive sample preparation device is filled with an analyte solution, placed in a fixed angle or swinging bucket centrifuge rotor, the solution is driven through the membrane, and analyte obtained as a result of adsorption on the membrane is recovered by washing and then eluting with a suitable desorption agent. A method of sealing the membrane in the device is also set forth.

Abstract: Reversed-phase materials and a method for producing such materials are disclosed. In making the materials, first a thin layer of an adsorbate comprising reactive amine groups is adsorbed to a support material such as silica, alumina or titania. A portion of the reactive amine groups of said adsorbed coating are then reacted with an amount of a hydrophobic reagent sufficient to effect crosslinking of said coating. At least one remaining reactive amine group, and preferably all of the reactive amine groups of said crosslinked adsorbed coating, are then reacted, preferably in the presence of a proton scavenger, with an amount of a hydrophobic anhydride sufficient to form an amide bond with said reactive amine.

Abstract: Cation-exchange support materials and methods for producing such materials are disclosed. In making the support materials, first a thin layer of an adsorbate comprising amine groups is adsorbed to an inorganic support material such as silica, alumina or titania. The adsorbed coating is then optionally crosslinked by a crosslinking agent such as epoxy resin or alkyl bromide. At least one amine group of the adsorbed crosslinked coating is then reacted, preferably in the presence of a proton scavenger, with an amount of a hydrophilic reagent sufficient to generate at least one carboxyl group. Alternatively, amine groups of the uncrosslinked adsorbed coating are reacted, preferably in the presence of a proton scavenger, with an amount of a hydrophilic polyfunctional reagent sufficient to simultaneously crosslink said coating and generate carboxyl groups.