Waters Corporation introduced the Waters Xevo Charge Detection Mass Spectrometer (CDMS) — a first-of-its-kind system designed to deliver unmatched measurement and characterization across a vast range of mega-mass biomolecules. These include the large and complex molecules that form the foundation of next-generation therapeutics and structural biology.
The rapid growth of cell and gene therapies, mRNA-based treatments, and complex protein therapeutics increasingly challenges scientists to analyze large, heterogeneous drug modalities. Traditional analytical tools often fall short in resolution, sensitivity, and compliance readiness. The Xevo CDMS System bridges this gap by providing direct, individual-particle mass measurements for molecules exceeding 150 megadaltons (MDa) — enabling the detailed study of protein complexes, nucleic acids, lipid nanoparticles, viral vectors, and more.
Transforming Analytical Capabilities for Advanced Modalities
“The Xevo CDMS represents a major leap forward in biomolecular analysis,” said Udit Batra, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, Waters Corporation. “By enabling precise measurement of previously unmeasurable molecules, we are empowering scientists to gain deeper insights into large-molecule therapeutics. This innovation will accelerate the development of genetic medicines and advanced modalities — ultimately making life-changing therapies more accessible to patients,” Batra added.
The Xevo CDMS offers confident, high-resolution analysis of new modalities such as empty, partial, and full viral vector capsids, using up to 100 times less sample volume than conventional methods. It delivers results in under ten minutes, even at extremely low concentrations (as low as 10¹⁰ vp/mL). This speed and efficiency open the door to real-time characterization of gene therapies during process development, helping ensure safety, consistency, and efficacy in advanced treatments.
Simplifying Complex Analysis
Unlike traditional mass spectrometry, CDMS removes the need for deconvolution or digestion to analyze large and complex molecules. Scientists can now obtain direct, simple, and accurate mass measurements faster than ever before. The technology supports a broad range of applications, from early-stage discovery and research to process development, regulatory review, and manufacturing. This versatility makes it a valuable tool across the biopharmaceutical value chain.
Empowering Therapeutic Innovation
Early adopters are already witnessing the impact of this innovation. “Our mission is to accelerate the development of gene therapies for genetically mediated cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer’s — areas where treatment options are still limited,” said Timothy Fenn, Ph.D., Vice President, Analytical Development and Quality Control, Lexeo Therapeutics. “With CDMS, we’re asking questions we didn’t know we could ask. It’s a game-changer for our analytical workflows, enabling us to generate accurate, reproducible results in minutes,” Fenn added.
Breakthrough Technology Born from Collaboration
At the core of the Xevo CDMS is the Electrostatic Linear Ion Trap (ELIT). It directly measures individual ions by simultaneously determining their mass-to-charge ratio and mass. The pioneering technology was originally developed at Indiana University by Distinguished Professors Martin Jarrold and David Clemmer, co-founders of Megadalton Solutions. As per the press release, Waters recognized the technology’s transformative potential. In 2022, the company acquired the technology assets and intellectual property rights from Indiana University to accelerate commercialization. Today, that collaboration has culminated in a breakthrough instrument. It redefines the possibilities of large-molecule characterization and supports the next wave of biotherapeutic innovation.
