Thermo Features Innovative Mass Spectrometry Portfolio

Thermo Electron Corporation showcased its innovative mass spectrometer solutions at Analytica 2006, including the LTQ Orbitrap™ hybrid mass spectrometer, the first totally new mass analyzer to be introduced to the market in over 20 years and the Finnigan™ LXQ™ linear ion trap mass spectrometer for high-throughput drug discovery and proteomics.

Additionally, Thermo expands its software offerings for its Finnigan™ TSQ Quantum™series of triple quadrupole mass spectrometers with the new LCQUAN™ 2.5 data acquisition system.

Recently awarded the Gold Editor’s Award at PITTCON® 2006 from among 1000 exhibitors, Thermo’s LTQ Orbitrap combines patented Orbitrap technology with the proven Finnigan LTQ linear ion trap in order to provide faster, more sensitive and more reliable detection and identification of compounds in complex mixtures. Additionally, its outstanding mass accuracy, mass resolution and reliable high sensitivity MSn performance make it a strong alternative to existing hybrid Time-of-Flight systems. The LTQ Orbitrap also delivers optimum performance for small molecule research, drug discovery, proteomics, metabolite identification and metabolomics.

“We believe the LTQ Orbitrap's patented technology represents the most significant breakthrough in mass spectrometry since the ion trap was introduced over 20 years ago,” commented Marc N. Casper, senior vice president of Thermo. “The performance advancements of the LTQ Orbitrap address our customers’ need for faster, more accurate analysis. We are as excited as our customers about the LTQ Orbitrap and its impact on promising research being performed in laboratories worldwide.”

Also on display at Analytica is the Finnigan LXQ linear ion trap mass spectrometer, which advances high-throughput drug discovery and proteomics by making linear trap performance a cost-effective option for fast-paced analytical laboratories. It features patented ion trap technology that results in ultra fast cycle times and improved ion statistics that dramatically increase sensitivity and speed over 3D ion traps.

Thermo’s LCQUAN system features a bi-directional interface with Watson™ LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) to provide secure, digital data transfer that is tailored for bioanalysis. As well as enabling 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, this software package includes several new features including remote disc support, a workbook-style, centralized file location, a one-window quantitation environment and a digital, secure, bi-directional interface with Watson LIMS.

“Thermo has successfully executed its strategy to build the most comprehensive mass spectrometry product offering of any company in the industry,” said Marc Casper, senior vice president of Thermo Electron Corporation. “Through our aggressive R&D efforts and our focused acquisition strategy, we are uniquely able to satisfy the needs of both our life sciences and industrial customer bases. I am more excited than ever about our market position and our opportunity for growth.”