Microfabricated monolithic multinozzle emitters for nanoelectrospray mass spectrometry

Anal Chem. 2007 May 15;79(10):3703-7. doi: 10.1021/ac070010j. Epub 2007 Apr 20.

Abstract

Mass spectrometry is the enabling technology for proteomics. To fully realize the enormous potential of lab-on-a-chip in proteomics, a major advance in interfacing microfluidics with mass spectrometry is needed. Here, we report the first demonstration of monolithic integration of multinozzle electrospray emitters with a microfluidic channel via a novel silicon microfabrication process. These microfabricated monolithic multinozzle emitters (M3 emitters) can be readily mass-produced from silicon wafers. Each emitter consists of a parallel silica nozzle array protruding out from a hollow silicon sliver with a conduit size of 100 x 10 mum. The dimension and number of freestanding nozzles can be systematically and precisely controlled during the fabrication process. Once integrated with a mass spectrometer, M3 emitters achieved sensitivity and stability in peptide and protein detection comparable to those of commercial silica-based capillary nanoelectrospray tips. These M3 emitters may play a role as a critical component in a fully integrated silicon/silica-based micro total analysis system for proteomics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Microfluidics / instrumentation
  • Microfluidics / methods*
  • Nanotechnology / instrumentation
  • Nanotechnology / methods
  • Peptides / analysis
  • Proteins / analysis
  • Proteomics / methods
  • Silicon
  • Spectrometry, Mass, Electrospray Ionization / instrumentation*
  • Spectrometry, Mass, Electrospray Ionization / methods

Substances

  • Peptides
  • Proteins
  • Silicon