High-Throughput Acoustic Ejection Mass Spectrometry with Adjustable Signal Durations

High-throughput mass spectrometry (MS) has witnessed rapid advancements and has found extensive applications across various disciplines. It enables the fast and accurate analysis of large sample sets, delivering a 10-fold or greater enhancement in analytical throughput when compared to conventional LC-MS methods. However, the signal duration in these high-throughput MS technologies is typically confined to a narrow range, presenting challenges for workflows demanding prolonged signal durations. In this study, we introduce a method that enables precise modulation of the signal duration on an acoustic ejection mass spectrometry (AEMS) system while ensuring high signal reproducibility. This flexibility allows for simultaneous and precise analysis of a significantly greater number of MS/MS transitions in high-throughput MS environments. Additionally, it offers a unique approach for parameter optimization and method development with minimal sample volume requirements. This advancement enhances the efficiency of MS-based analyses across diverse applications and facilitates broader utilization of MS technologies in high-throughput settings, including data-dependent acquisition (DDA) and data-independent acquisition (DIA).