Shimadzu Nexera MX - Ultra-High Speed LCMS System for Multiplex Analysis

Importance of the Topic

The growing demand for high-throughput, multiplexed LC-MS/MS analyses drives innovation in analytical chemistry. Applications such as drug discovery, clinical biomarker quantification, and large-scale residue screening rely on rapid, sensitive, and reliable workflows. By minimizing downtime and automating complex tasks, modern systems boost laboratory productivity and data quality.

Study Objectives and Overview

This whitepaper presents the design and performance of Shimadzu’s Nexera MX ultra-high-speed LCMS system. The main objectives are:

• To demonstrate a two-fold increase in sample throughput using dual-stream acquisition.
• To integrate intelligent software for automatic MRM optimization, method creation, and data processing.
• To validate low carryover, rapid injection cycles, and robust operation under continuous multiplexed conditions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Nexera MX Dual Stream Technology (MX-DST): Two parallel LC-MS streams overlap column washing, equilibration, and data acquisition to nearly eliminate idle time.
• Autosampler SIL-40 Series with high-capacity plate changers: Achieves full injection cycles in as little as 6.7 seconds and supports up to 44 microtiter plates for uninterrupted operation.
• LCMS-8060NX Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer: Features the IonFocus™ unit with heated ESI, UF-Qarray™ II and UF-Lens™ II guides, delivering world-class sensitivity and reduced matrix effects.
• Software Suite: LabSolutions Connect automates MRM optimization, method and batch file generation, and real-time queue management; LabSolutions Insight accelerates post-acquisition screening, batch review, and report creation.

Main Results and Discussion

Nexera MX demonstrated a two-fold throughput improvement compared to conventional systems, completing a four-biomarker CYP assay in 38 seconds versus 1 minute 22 seconds. The autosampler’s 6.7-second injection cycle doubled sample injection rates. Carryover remained exceptionally low (0.00007% for a 500 ng/µL chlorhexidine standard), reducing rinsing time and ensuring reliable quantitation. The automated MRM optimization handled libraries of hundreds of thousands of transitions, and the software seamlessly generated methods and batch queues, streamlining the entire workflow.

The LCMS-8060NX delivered enhanced desolvation and ionization efficiency, boosting sensitivity for a wider range of compounds. Analytical Intelligence functions enabled automated startup, shutdown, self-diagnostics, and remote monitoring, minimizing downtime and standardizing results across operators.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Drug Discovery: Rapid CYP inhibition assays, multiplexed quantitation of metabolites, and high-throughput screening.
• Clinical and Biomarker Analysis: Fast turnaround for large sample cohorts with minimal human intervention.
• Regulatory and QA/QC Testing: Consistent, reproducible data for trace-level contaminant and pesticide residue analysis.
• Workflow Efficiency: Reduced manual programming, automated method transfer, and streamlined data review.

Future Trends and Opportunities

The convergence of digital technologies—IoT, machine-to-machine communication, and AI—will further enhance system uptime, predictive maintenance, and real-time optimization. Cloud-based data analytics and collaborative platforms promise to integrate high-throughput instrumentation with centralized quality management. Continued advances in ion source design, microfluidics, and software intelligence will expand multiplex capabilities to new compound classes and complex matrices.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s Nexera MX system represents a significant advance in multiplexed LC-MS/MS analysis, combining dual-stream acquisition, ultra-fast autosampling, and intelligent software to double throughput while maintaining sensitivity, robustness, and low carryover. This integrated solution addresses the evolving needs of pharmaceutical, clinical, and industrial laboratories, paving the way for more efficient and automated analytical workflows.