Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer

Significance of the topic

The Orbitrap Exploris 480 addresses the growing demand for high-confidence proteomics by delivering market-leading quantitative and qualitative performance in a compact footprint. It enables in-depth protein identification, precise multiplexed quantitation, and sensitive targeted workflows, meeting the needs of large-scale cohort studies, single-cell analysis, and biotherapeutic characterization.

Objectives and overview

This application note presents the design and performance of the Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer. It highlights how next-generation hardware and software, coupled with intelligent acquisition strategies, streamline complex proteomic workflows, increase throughput, and maintain robust day-to-day operation.

Methodology and instrumentation

• Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer with ultra-high-field Orbitrap analyzer (up to 480,000 FWHM at m/z 200, 40 Hz acquisition)
• Thermo Scientific Vanquish Horizon UHPLC system for reliable separation
• OptaMax NG and EASY-Spray NG ion sources with EASY-IC internal calibration
• FAIMS Pro interface for gas-phase fractionation and interference reduction
• Advanced Quadrupole Technology and Active Beam Guide for enhanced sensitivity and robustness
• Ion-routing multipole, electrodynamic ion funnel, and C-Trap for efficient ion handling
• Proteome Discoverer and BioPharma Finder software for comprehensive data analysis

Main results and discussion

• Next-generation user experience: Unified architecture simplifies training, method transfer, and accessory compatibility across LC-MS platforms.
• Enhanced multiplexed quantitation: TurboTMT and ΦSDM spectral processing resolve TMT reporter ion isotopologues, while the Precursor Fit algorithm and FAIMS Pro interface reduce interference for more accurate MS2 quantitation.
• FAIMS Pro performance gains: Up to 43% increase in proteome coverage during high-throughput analyses and improved sensitivity down to single-cell and low-nanogram levels without sacrificing quantitative precision.
• Inter-system reproducibility: Protein and peptide identification CVs below 1% and 5%, respectively, across three locations, ensuring consistency for large cohorts.
• Targeted workflows: SureQuant real-time monitoring of stable-isotope internal standards enables sensitive, accurate quantitation of hundreds of peptides with minimal method development.
• Biopharma characterization: High-resolution intact and native mass analysis of monoclonal antibodies with baseline-resolved glycoforms, sub-10-ppm mass accuracy, and clear subunit spectra using BioPharma Finder.

Benefits and practical applications

The combination of robust engineering, automated calibration, and intelligent acquisition makes the Orbitrap Exploris 480 ideal for discovery proteomics, large-scale quantitative studies, targeted biomarker validation, and biotherapeutic analysis. Laboratories benefit from high uptime, streamlined maintenance, and accessible workflows for users of varying expertise.

Future trends and potential uses

Emerging AI-driven acquisition strategies, deeper integration with multi-omic platforms, and continued miniaturization will further extend capabilities in single-cell proteomics, clinical diagnostics, and real-time monitoring. Advancements in ion mobility interfaces and software algorithms are expected to push sensitivity, throughput, and confidence even higher.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer delivers extraordinary accuracy, reliability, and simplicity. Its intelligence-driven workflows and unified user experience empower researchers to achieve deeper insights and higher confidence across a broad range of proteomic and biopharma applications.