Current Case Studies

Welcome to the VMSL case studies! We have four case studies for you to solve. A brief description of each case study is shown below. If it is the first time you have worked on a case study, please take the Pre-Quiz. A Post-Quiz will be provided after you work through the case study. Please select a case study, run some experiments and try to solve the problem. Have fun!

Protein Identification
Once digested by the proper enzyme, each protein will produce a unique fingerprint consisting of peptide molecular ions. Mass spectrometry allows us to accurately determine the mass of each fragment and enables us to identify the protein. In this case study, you must identify the species that donated a blood sample. This case study is targeted for college juniors and higher. Expected lab time is 3 hours.
General Anesthetics
Many anesthetics are small molecules with distinguishing chemical properties.  Mass spectrometry is a useful tool that can be used to identify these compounds.
Cocaine in Hair
The analysis of cocaine in hair is complementary to the more typical urine and blood drug tests. Mass spectrometry can help to identify drugs like cocaine in hair and reveal the long term chronological record of a person's cocaine use.
Polymer Analysis
Mass spectrometry can be used to analyze synthetic polymers.  In this case study you must identify the best polymer additive to meet the specifications of a unique rubber tire formulation.  This case study is targeted for college juniors and higher. Expected lab time is 2 hours.
new Caffeine Case Study