High-Resolution, Accurate-Mass Spectrometry
Through a National Science Foundation Major Research Instrumentation Grant (#1039659) we have obtained an Agilent 6520 quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometer. Coupled to an Agilent 1200 HPLC with autosampler, we are capable of analyzing samples as they are separated using both normal and reverse phase HPLC.
The Agilent 6520 Q-TOF mass spectrometer is equipped with an electrospray ionization (ESI) ion source. This instrument analyzes both positive and negative-ions from m/z 25 to 20,000, has a dynamic range of five orders of magnitude, the ability to detect low-picogram amounts of sample, 1-2 ppm mass accuracy for MS analyses and 2-4 ppm mass accuracy for MS/MS analyses. The resolution of the instrument is approximately 18,000 (full width at half height) for masses ~1500 amu and greater than 10,000 for masses ~120 amu.
This instrument is used for both research and educational activities at Vassar. Undergraduates routinely analyze samples and interpret complex mass spectrometry data. If you are interested in a collaboration to obtain mass spectrometry data for your research or teaching please contact me.
Lipid structure and composition characterization
We often collaborate with other lipid biochemists to characterize the structure and composition of lipids in a variety of systems.
Molecular Basis of Symbiosis
In collaboration with Jodi Schwarz (Vassar Biology) we have undertaken a project to understand the role of lipids in symbiosis. Using the model anemone, Aiptasia pallida, which forms a symbiotic relationship with a photosynthetic dinoflaggelate Symbiodinium, we are identifying the lipids in the these organisms as well as which lipids play central roles in the establishment, maintenance and disintegration of symbiosis.