With support from the Chemistry Research Instrumentation and Facilities (CRIF) Program, the Department of Chemistry at the University of Southern California will acquire a Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption Ionization - Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF) Mass Spectrometer. This instrument will be used in a wide variety of research projects, including studies on a) the structure-function relationships in small molecule therapeutics; b) synthesis of novel macromolecules for light-harvesting and information technology applications; c) synthesis of macrocyclic and block copolymers; d) polymer electrolytes for rechargeable lithium ion batteries; d) structure, dynamics, and functions of packaging RNA; and e) analysis of silicon-based monomers and polymers.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry is the technique of choice for obtaining accurate molecular weights on molecules up to and over 300,000 daltons, with extremely high sensitivity. Use of a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer has therefore become a standard technique, especially in studies involving biomolecules. This research will have a significant impact in a number of areas, especially polymer studies and medicinal chemistry
