Metabolite imaging signals the next frontier in spatial biology

Recent technological and computational advances in spatial transcriptomics have increased interest in complementary techniques for characterizing the multi-dimensional architecture of tissues, such as using mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) to map the distribution of metabolites and lipids.

Unlike liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), where metabolites and lipids are usually measured from whole samples in bulk, MSI uses a scanning probe to collect spatially resolved data across a tissue section. Although its chemical coverage is typically inferior to LC/MS, MSI can still measure metabolites and lipids with high sensitivity and molecular specificity.

Dr. Gary Patti, Professor of Chemistry, Genetics and Medicine, Washington University, will provide an overview of the various technologies available for MSI, covering different sources and mass spectrometers, from home-built solutions to commercial options. The pros and cons of each approach will be briefly discussed, and their application to imaging metabolic fluxes will be explored.

Key learning objectives

• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of MSI compared to LC/MS analyses
• Explore the best way to establish metabolite identifications when performing MSI
• Discover the benefits of using triple quadrupole instruments for MSI
• Consider the benefits of coupling MSI with isotope labelling

Who should attend?

• This event is intended for anyone with an interest in mass spectrometry imaging or spatial biology. Extensive expertise in mass spectrometry is not required.

Certificate of attendance
All webinar participants can request a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.