Orbitrap Ascend MultiOmics Tribrid mass spectrometer (Product specifications)

Significance of the Topic

Mass spectrometry is a cornerstone of multiomics research, enabling comprehensive analysis of proteins, metabolites, lipids, and glycoconjugates. High sensitivity, fast scan rates, and versatile fragmentation techniques are critical for resolving complex biological samples and achieving deep molecular coverage. Advances in instrument design directly impact throughput, reproducibility, and data quality, supporting a wide range of applications in proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, glycoproteomics, and glycomics.

Study Objectives and Overview

This article reviews the technical specifications and key performance features of the Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Ascend MultiOmics Tribrid mass spectrometer. The objective is to highlight its innovative hardware and software integrations, improved sensitivity, and expanded functionality for multiomic analyses. Key goals include accelerated real-time searches, enhanced quantitative accuracy, and streamlined workflows for diverse experimental demands.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Orbitrap Ascend MultiOmics Tribrid instrument integrates several novel hardware components and advanced control software to optimize ion management, fragmentation, and data acquisition.

• Tribrid Architecture: Combines a quadrupole mass filter, dual-pressure linear ion trap, and ultra-high-field Orbitrap analyzer for parallel MS and MSn operations.
• Active Ion Management (AIM+): Employs QR5 segmented quadrupole and advanced ion beam guide to maximize ion transmission and reduce noise.
• Atmospheric Pressure Interface: High-Capacity Transfer Tube (HCTT) and modified Electrodynamic Ion Funnel (EDIF) for low-abundance and labile analytes.
• Ion Sources: Includes Ion Max NG HESI, Auto-Ready ESI source, optional APCI/APPI, EASY-Spray, EASY-ETD (with ETD/PTCR capability), EASY-IC for real-time calibration, UVPD, and NanoSpray Flex NG.
• Native MS Mode: Extends mass range to m/z 16,000 with specialized isolation and detection options for intact proteins and complexes.
• Software Suite: Controlled by Xcalibur and instrument-specific control software; data processing with AcquireX, Compound Discoverer, Proteome Discoverer, ProSightPD, and BioPharma Finder.
• Advanced Acquisition Modes: Real-Time Search, TurboTMT, Dynamic Maximum Injection Time, Synchronous Precursor Selection (SPS), and universal methods to maximize peptide and small molecule identifications.

Main Results and Discussion

Performance benchmarks demonstrate up to 45 Hz MS/MS acquisition in the Orbitrap at 7,500 resolution and 50 Hz in the ion trap, with mass accuracy better than 1 ppm using internal calibration. Active Ion Management and advanced vacuum design deliver lower detection limits and a dynamic range exceeding 5000 in a single spectrum. Fragmentation versatility (CID, HCD, ETD/EThcD/ETciD, PTCR, UVPD) supports comprehensive characterization workflows, while real-time database and library searches improve specificity and throughput for TMT quantification and small molecule profiling.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High Throughput: Faster cycle times and intelligent acquisition modes boost sample throughput without sacrificing data depth.
• Quantitative Accuracy: Real-Time Search and TurboTMT enhance precision in multiplexed experiments.
• Versatility: Wide mass range, multiple fragmentation options, and optional interfaces (FAIMS Pro Duo) adapt to diverse molecular targets.
• Ease of Use: Automated calibration via Auto-Ready source, drag-and-drop method editor, and pre-built templates reduce setup time and training requirements.
• Robustness and Maintenance: Oil-free pumps, long-life ion funnel, and remote calibration sustain reliable operation with minimal downtime.

Future Trends and Applications

Emerging applications will leverage the instrument’s real-time search and multi-omics integration to accelerate biomarker discovery and systems biology studies. Advances in artificial intelligence–driven spectral interpretation and expanded ion mobility interfaces will further enhance sensitivity and resolving power. The growing demand for native and top-down proteomics, single-cell analysis, and in situ metabolite imaging points to continued evolution of hybrid architectures and software-driven workflows.

Conclusion

The Orbitrap Ascend MultiOmics Tribrid mass spectrometer offers a powerful combination of speed, sensitivity, and versatility for comprehensive multiomic analyses. Innovative hardware, coupled with intelligent software, delivers unprecedented throughput and data quality. This platform is poised to address future challenges in proteomics, metabolomics, and biopharmaceutical characterization, enabling deeper insights into complex biological systems.