Miniaturized portable MALDI-2 imaging mass spectrometer
BaySpec is developing miniature, portable MALDI-2 imaging mass spectrometer prototypes under an ARPA-H award to enable high-resolution, on-site clinical diagnostics. This technology brings sophisticated laboratory imaging capabilities to point-of-care settings, supporting advanced applications such as biomarker discovery and proteomics through a compact, rapid-deployment platform.
Overview
BaySpec is developing a highly miniaturized and portable MALDI-2 imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) system specifically designed for point-of-care clinical diagnostics. Supported by a 2023 ARPA-H award, this initiative aims to transition disruptive mass spectrometry technology from proof-of-concept prototypes to scalable, deployable clinical tools. By bringing high-resolution imaging capabilities outside of traditional laboratory settings, this solution empowers rapid, on-site analytical chemistry, offering a transformative approach to diagnostics where portability and real-time results are critical.
Technical specifications
The system utilizes advanced MALDI-2 (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization) ionization, which provides high sensitivity and reduced fragmentation for large molecules compared to traditional techniques. Key features include:
- Dual fast solid-state miniature Nd-YAG lasers (266 nm) enabling high spatial resolution up to 5 micrometers.
- Adaptable ion optics supporting MS and MS/MS modes to ensure optimal sensitivity for diverse clinical samples.
- A compact, portable form factor designed for rapid deployment and ease of use in clinical environments.
- Capability to perform advanced imaging mass spectrometry, facilitating applications like biomarker discovery and proteomics.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently in development (TRL 4-6). BaySpec was awarded a 3-year ARPA-H contract in September 2023 to design, optimize, test, and deliver two fully functional miniature prototype systems. Development is ongoing as part of a formal program to transition these prototypes toward commercial scalability and clinical validation.
About BaySpec, inc
BaySpec, Inc. is a vertically integrated spectral sensing company founded in 1999 and headquartered in San Jose, California. The company designs, manufactures, and markets a broad range of advanced spectral instruments, including UV-VIS-NIR-SWIR spectrometers, benchtop and portable Raman analyzers, confocal Raman microscopes, hyperspectral imagers, and mass spectrometers. A key differentiator for the company is its commitment to in-house manufacturing in the United States, where it produces major system components—including detector packaging, optical gratings, control electronics, and operating software—at its Silicon Valley facility. This integrated approach allows BaySpec to maintain creative control and cost-effectiveness while delivering ruggedized, high-performance optical and sensing solutions.
BaySpec’s technologies are utilized across diverse sectors such as biomedical, pharmaceuticals, chemical, food testing, semiconductor, and optical telecommunications industries. By providing high-precision analytical tools that can move from laboratory settings to field environments, the company addresses critical customer needs for reliable, miniaturized, and portable diagnostics and analysis. They have successfully shipped more than 35,000 spectroscopic systems, supported by their proprietary innovations like Volume Phase Gratings and specialized spectral engines, enabling applications ranging from food safety and explosive detection to advanced fiber sensing and telecommunications performance monitoring.
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