Caltech Develops Ion-Free Mass Spectrometry with Fingerprint NEMS

This groundbreaking method allows for single-molecule analysis of proteins without ionization, paving the way for comprehensive proteome studies.

Caltech scientists have introduced a novel mass spectrometry technique using nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) that avoids ionizing samples.
The new method employs machine learning to analyze vibrational frequency shifts in NEMS devices, enabling precise mass measurements of individual molecules.
This approach can work with various NEMS devices, including complex ones with arbitrary geometries, by creating a unique frequency fingerprint for each molecule.
The technology allows for real-time, single-molecule analysis of proteins, potentially leading to a complete understanding of an organism's proteome.
The fingerprint technique overcomes limitations of traditional mass spectrometry, which often requires breaking down proteins into fragments for analysis.