Mass Spectrometry Imaging Data Analysis Software - IMAGEREVEAL MS

Importance of the Topic

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has emerged as a powerful technique to visualize molecular distributions directly in biological samples. IMAGEREVEAL MS is designed to simplify and accelerate routine MSI data analysis by integrating differential analysis, image extraction, and quantitative evaluation into streamlined workflows. The software addresses key challenges such as handling large datasets, diverse data formats, and complex multivariate analyses.

Objectives and Study Overview

IMAGEREVEAL MS aims to provide an accessible and versatile platform for MSI researchers. It supports multiple analysis modes—differential, image, quantitative, and screening—and enables rapid identification of region-specific biomarkers, extraction of images matching histological stains, and conversion of signal intensities into concentration maps. The study presents typical workflows, showcases applications on a NASH mouse liver model, and highlights licensing options.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The core methodology centers on a three-step workflow:

• Select analysis mode
• Import data (imzML, Analyze7.5, RAW or proprietary formats via IMDX Converter)
• Run “Collective Analysis” combining variance analysis, multivariate statistics (PCA, PLS) and image generation

Instrument compatibility includes:

• Shimadzu iMScope™ QT and TRIO
• MALDI-7090 and AXIMA™ series
• Thermo Fisher RAW files
• General formats imzML and Analyze7.5

Main Results and Discussion

Key features demonstrated include:

• Auto-selection of MS images highlighting differences between NASH and healthy mouse liver tissue via differential analysis and PCA
• Similarity-based image extraction matching Sirius Red stained sections, enabling histologically guided discovery of molecular distributions
• Quantitative analysis converting ion intensities to absolute concentrations using calibration curves on tissue sections
• High-throughput processing: simultaneous analysis of multiple datasets up to hundreds of gigabytes
• Tiered licensing offering basic to full capabilities including screening, segmentation, and advanced statistical functions

These results illustrate the software’s capacity to integrate statistical, spectral, and spatial analyses in an efficient regimen.

Benefits and Practical Applications

IMAGEREVEAL MS enhances laboratory productivity by reducing routine analysis to a few clicks while retaining flexibility for custom target lists and non-target discovery. It supports QA/QC workflows, biomarker screening in disease models, drug distribution studies, and large-scale comparative studies across samples.

Future Trends and Potential Uses

Anticipated developments include integration with cloud-based computing for scalable data handling, incorporation of machine learning for automated pattern recognition, expansion to multi-omics data fusion, and enhanced real-time quantitative imaging. These trends will further democratize high-resolution molecular imaging.

Conclusion

IMAGEREVEAL MS represents a comprehensive solution for MSI data analysis, combining ease of use with advanced statistical and quantitative tools. Its versatile workflows and broad format support make it a valuable asset for both routine and exploratory MSI applications.