AB SCIEX ekspert nanoLC 400 Liquid Chromatograph

Overview

The AB SCIEX ekspert nanoLC 400 is a purpose-built nanoflow liquid chromatography system engineered for high-sensitivity, low-volume separations in bottom-up and top-down proteomics, post-translational modification analysis, and targeted peptide quantification. Based on a dual-gradient, high-precision microfluidic architecture, the system employs splitless nanoflow pumping technology to deliver stable, pulse-free solvent delivery across flow rates from 50 nL/min to 20 µL/min. Unlike conventional HPLC systems, the ekspert nanoLC 400 integrates integrated valve switching, column oven control, and real-time pressure monitoring—enabling reproducible retention time alignment (<1.5% RSD over 100 injections) and robust method transfer between laboratories. Its compact footprint and modular design facilitate seamless integration into multi-instrument proteomics core facilities, particularly when coupled with AB SCIEX mass spectrometry platforms via heated electrospray ionization (H-ESI) sources.

Key Features

• Splitless dual-gradient nanoflow pump with active backpressure regulation for sub-µL/min stability and <0.1% RSD flow precision
• Integrated 6-port/2-position switching valve for automated trap-elute, 2D-LC, and column regeneration protocols
• Programmable column oven (ambient to 80 °C) with PID-controlled thermal uniformity (<±0.5 °C)
• Real-time pressure monitoring (0–10,000 psi) with automatic fault detection and system pause on overpressure event
• On-board diagnostics and self-test routines compliant with instrument qualification (IQ/OQ) documentation requirements
• Pre-configured method templates for common proteomic workflows including DIA (Data-Independent Acquisition) and SRM/MRM transitions

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ekspert nanoLC 400 supports analytical-scale and nanoscale reversed-phase separations using packed capillary columns (50–150 µm internal diameter), including silica-based C18, C8, and hydrophilic interaction (HILIC) chemistries. It accommodates sample volumes as low as 1 µL and is routinely deployed in workflows requiring minimal sample consumption—such as single-cell proteomics, laser-capture microdissected tissues, and limited clinical biopsy specimens. The system meets foundational requirements for regulated environments: software audit trails, electronic signatures (when paired with validated ekspert Control v3.2+), and compatibility with 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data management systems. While the instrument itself is not certified for GMP manufacturing release testing, it is widely used in GLP-compliant discovery research and biomarker qualification studies aligned with ICH M10 and ISO/IEC 17025 guidance.

Software & Data Management

Control and method development are performed via ekspert microLC/nanoLC Control software (v3.2 or higher), a Windows-based application supporting method import/export, sequence queueing, and real-time chromatogram visualization. Raw data files (.wiff) are natively compatible with AB SCIEX Analyst®, PeakView®, and MarkerView™ software suites. For long-term archiving and cross-platform analysis, the system supports conversion to open formats including mzML and mzXML through ProteoWizard. All software modules log operator actions, method changes, and system events in a tamper-resistant audit trail—enabling traceability per FDA expectations for research-use-only (RUO) instrumentation. Remote monitoring via Ethernet interface allows centralized fleet management in multi-user core facilities.

Applications

• Bottom-up proteomics: High-resolution peptide separation prior to LC-MS/MS analysis on TripleTOF® 6600+ or ZenoTOF™ 7600 systems
• Phosphoproteomics and glycoproteomics: Online enrichment coupling with TiO₂ or lectin columns
• Intact protein analysis: Native and denatured LC-MS workflows using wide-pore columns and volatile mobile phases
• Biopharmaceutical characterization: Peptide mapping of monoclonal antibodies and ADCs under reduced/non-reduced conditions
• Metabolite profiling in limited samples: Nano-LC separation of polar and semi-polar metabolites with MS detection

FAQ

Is this unit refurbished and fully tested before resale?
Yes. Each pre-owned ekspert nanoLC 400 undergoes functional verification including pump linearity, gradient accuracy, pressure stability, valve timing, and temperature calibration—documented in a Certificate of Verification.
Does it include original software licenses and installation support?
The system ships with a valid ekspert Control software license (RUO use only) and installation assistance; site-specific validation support is available separately.
Can it be integrated with non-SCIEX mass spectrometers?
Yes—via standard ESI interfaces and analog/digital trigger outputs; compatibility with Thermo Scientific, Waters, and Bruker instruments has been demonstrated in published literature.
What consumables and spare parts are recommended for initial operation?
Essential items include nanoViper fittings, fused-silica capillaries (75 µm ID × 360 µm OD), trapping columns (C18, 2 cm × 100 µm), analytical columns (15 cm × 75 µm), and LC-grade solvents with ≤0.1 µm filtration.
Is service contract coverage available post-purchase?
Extended hardware warranty and annual preventive maintenance plans are offered through authorized AB SCIEX service partners in North America, EMEA, and APAC regions.