Improvement in the apparent mass resolution of oligonucleotides by using 12C/14N-enriched samples.
The apparent mass resolution of oligonucleotides in time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometers has been examined. In a reflectron TOF instrument, where the isotopic profile can be completely resolved, the apparent resolution matches the instrument's resolving power. In a linear TOF instrument, unresolved isotopic profiles limit the apparent resolution to much lower values than the actual instrument resolution. By using 12C/14N-enriched oligonucleotides, the apparent resolution can be improved significantly. The isotope enrichment method also enhances the signal-to-noise ratio.
Tang
Kai
K
Sequenom Inc., San Diego, California 92121, USA. ktang@sequenom.com
Shahgholi
Mona
M
Garcia
Benjamin A
BA
Heaney
Paul J
PJ
Cantor
Charles R
CR
Scott
Lincoln G
LG
Williamson
James R
JR
D002247:Carbon Isotopes; D013058:Mass Spectrometry / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D009584:Nitrogen; D009841:Oligonucleotides / Q000032:analysis* / Q000737:chemistry
D002247:Carbon Isotopes; D009841:Oligonucleotides; D009584:Nitrogen