Segmented Flow Sampling with Push-Pull Theta Pipettes for Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

摘要

Segmented flow sampling with push-pull theta pipettes provides an attractive route to sample sub-nanoliter volumes of analytes with high spatial resolution and to deliver them to a mass spectrometer with high sample transfer efficiency. The method utilizes theta pipettes as all-in-one tools for sample collection, handling and electrospray emission which enables analysis of segments as small as 170 pL which, to our knowledge, are the smallest segments subjected to ESI-MS. In addition, the method was shown to be an efficient route for study of intercellular heterogeneity.