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May 15, 2026
Penghsuan (Timo) Huang, Pharmsci graduate student (Li Lab), will be defending his PhD research thesis:
Advanced Multimodal Mass Spectrometry: Enhancing Analytical Resolution to Probe the Molecular Basis of Biological Complexity
Abstract:
Biological systems are composed of diverse classes of biomolecules that regulate cellular function, communication, and metabolism. Comprehensive characterization of these molecules remains challenging due to their structural complexity and wide dynamic range, particularly in complex biological matrices. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based technologies have become essential tools for biomolecular analysis; however, limitations in sensitivity, analyte enrichment, and separation efficiency continue to constrain analytical performance.
This work focuses on the development of multimodal MS-based strategies to improve biomolecular detection and characterization. First, a targeted phospholipid enrichment method based on metal oxide solid-phase extraction (SPE) was developed, enabling rapid and high-throughput lipid analysis when coupled with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization ion mobility mass spectrometry (MALDI-IM-MS). Second, surface protein enrichment strategies were established for secretome characterization and integrated with age-dependent global proteomics to investigate developmental biology in the non-model organism Acromyrmex echinatior, with a focus on biomineralization and symbiotic interactions. Third, an integrated proteomics and peptidomics platform was applied to examine molecular responses to dietary perturbations and drug intervention, combining isobaric labeling for protein quantification with label-free analysis of endogenous peptides. Overall, this work demonstrates the utility of integrated MS-based workflows in enhancing analytical depth and providing new insights into complex biological systems.