• Sample Submission

    • All samples must be accompanied by a completed sample submission form.
    • Provide as much information as possible to ensure successful analysis using the most appropriate method.
    • Explore the tabs for specific instructions relevant for your samples.

    For all new clients, please contact the laboratory manager:

    Dr. Matthew W. Forbes, PhD
    E: matthew.forbes@utoronto.ca
    T: (416) 978 5089

  • Sample Drop Box

    • The sample drop box is located in the basement hallway between LM18 (AIMS) and LM14 (NMR) in the Lash Miller Building - Department of Chemistry - 80 St. George Street.
    • Red box: drop-off -- Grey boxes: pickup

    For all new clients, please contact the laboratory manager:

    Dr. Matthew W. Forbes, PhD
    E: matthew.forbes@utoronto.ca
    T: (416) 978 5089

  • High Resolution Mass Spectrometry Analysis (HRMS)

    • Samples may be submitted for HRMS analysis, also referred to as accurate mass determination or molecular formula determination.
    • Ionization methods currently available include DART, EI and ESI.
    • Samples for compound characterization should ideally be:
      • Neat, purified and sealed in glass scintillation vials
      • Free from deuterated solvents
    • Sample submission forms must include:
      • Structure and/or molecular formula
      • Solubility in compatible solvent

  • Proteins & Peptides

    • Proteins and peptides submitted for ESI-MS analysis may be either lyopholized or in solution.
    • Solutions should be of a concentration not less than ~10 µM and volume not less than ~10 µL.
    • Indicate clearly all of the following information:
      • Expected molecular weight(s)
      • Analyte concentration(s)
      • List all buffers, additives and their respective concentrations
    • Biological samples normally require de-salting using one of the following methods:
      • Sephadex size exclusion column (per sample charge applies)
      • C4, C12 reverse phase LC-MS (per hour charge applies)

    Biohazard Declaration

    • The AIMS Laboratory has no biocontainment level designation; therefore, all samples of biological origin must be treated to inactivate pathogens prior to submission.

  • EI

    • Samples submitted for EI should ideally be neat solids or liquids - solutions should be avoided whenever possible.
    • Samples are introduced to the source using either the solids probe or DCI probe.

    Air- / Moisture- sensitive samples

    • An appointment is required prior to submission
      • To minimize exposure time outside of the glovebox, samples may be submitted in melting point capillaries, sealed in scintillation vials.
    • Contact the laboratory manager for specific details and to arrange an appointment.

  • MALDI

    • Samples submitted for MALDI analysis will be prepared using one of the following matrices, when in stock:
      • CHCA
      • SA
      • DHB
      • Dithranol
      • 3-HPA
    • Samples should be free from salts and buffers and analyte concentrations should be not less than ~10 µM.