Microfluidics and Mass spectrometry

        My research is focused on the development of integrative analytical tools for

the analysis of proteins and peptides. A central theme of my research has been the

development of the Electrocapture technology. Two broad areas of application dominate

this effort:

1. Proteome analysis by mass spectrometry. Why Proteomics??

2. Instrument and method development based on microanalytical devices.

My research is done at Prof. Hans Jörnvall´s laboratory Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.

Why Microfluidics ?

        Microfluidics promise to revolutionize chemical analysis by integrating several

pre-analytical procedures into a single and small platform. This integration will lead to

multifuctional and highthroughput tools for analysis of biomolecules.

Why Mass spectrometry - Microfluidics?

        Mass spectrometry (MS) is the most powerful tool for characterization and

identification of molecules (proteins, peptides and small molecules). The main ionization

methods for MS are highly compatible with microfluidics, thus the combination of these

tools will enable the development of high-throughput analytical tools (MALDI-MS utilizes

submicroliter samples and nanospray ionization works under flow rates of 200-300nL/min)

         In this context, my research is concentrated in the development of different

applications and technical improvements of the electrocapture technology.

Electrocapture is a multifuctional tool that utilizes and electric field to immobilize or

capture charged molecules travelling in a microflow stream. The electric field

counterbalance the velocity of the molecules, causing the immobilization of the

molecules in the flow stream [Figure 1]. Please visit the link Proteomics, Electrocapture

technology and mass spectrometry to know more about my research.

Figure 1. Charged Molecules are injected into the Electrocapture cell and immobilized in the flow stream by

                electric field.