Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) enables molecular visualization, identification, and quantification directly in their spatial context. But complex samples, low-level analytes, and workflow variability often make consistent, reliable results difficult to achieve. Waters solutions bring together complementary MALDI and DESI techniques with advanced mass spectrometry (high-resolution and tandem quadrupole) systems, intuitive HDI Software, and expert global service and support. From untargeted discovery to precise targeted analysis, our portfolio accelerates imaging across applications including biomarker discovery, drug distribution, and translational research, delivering reproducible, high-resolution results with absolute confidence.
From mapping unknown molecular profiles to quantifying specific biomarkers, Waters MS imaging solutions cover the full spectrum of applications. Our versatile portfolio includes high-resolution QTOF mass spectrometers for detailed molecular characterization in discovery workflows platforms reveal detailed molecular profiles for discovery research, while tandem quadrupole systems provide the sensitivity and selectivity needed for targeted imaging and quantification. This combination provides the precision, reliability and flexibility needed to advance your research with confidence. ensures reliable results, whether you’re uncovering new insights or validating critical markers.
Waters mass spectrometry imaging solutions combine the proven precision of MALDI with the simplicity of DESI to deliver flexible, multi-dimensional molecular imaging. This duel ionization approach empowers researchers to extract richer insights from a single sample, whether you are mapping complex molecular landscapes or validating targeted biomarkers.
Together, these complementary techniques provide a multi-layered view of molecular distributions, enhancing data depth and clarity across diverse research applications from drug development to disease profiling.
High definition imaging (HDI) Software integrates acquisition, processing, and visualization together in one intuitive workflow. Multimodal support enables alignment of MALDI and DESI datasets with optical images for clear, publication-ready results. Combined with Waters global service network and applications support, your lab gains efficiency, reproducibility, and the ability to scale imaging studies into the future.
DESI-MS images of the four drugs and endogenous lipid PC(34:2), [M+K]+ in liver tissue sections from: 2 and 6 hour post-cassette dosed models, 2 and 6 hour discrete dosed models, and untreated control. Top left panel shows sample key.
Images of a non-confluent cell culture (THP-1 derived macrophages), A) a 25 µm survey scan B) Zoom in of the 25 µm survey scan showing area of interest C) 5 µm image of area of interest.
Positive ionization mode mouse brain MRM ions images acquired at 25 x 25 µm pixel size of four PC lipids. A) Isobaric PC lipids m/z 782.55 (sodiated PC [34:1] 782.55>147 and protonated PC [36:4] 782.55>184). B) Isobaric PC lipids m/z 806.55 (sodiated PC [36:3] 782.55>147 and protonated PC [36:6] 806.55>184).
Showing image fidelity improvements with decreasing pixel size, A) with a low conventional flow DESI 500 nL/min and B) with low flow DESI 250 nL/min. Images aquired at 10 Hz in negative ion mode (m/z 885.55 displayed).