Nanoparticle-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization for Metabolite Imaging

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) has enabled the spatial analysis of various molecules, including peptides, nucleic acids, lipids, and drug molecules. To expand the capabilities of MALDI-IMS, we have established an imaging technique using metal nanoparticles (NPs) to visualize metabolites, termed nanoparticle-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (nano-PALDI-IMS). By utilizing Ag-, Fe-, Au-, and TiO2-derived NPs, we have succeeded in visualizing various metabolites, including fatty acid and glycosphingolipids, with higher sensitivity and spatial resolution than conventional techniques. Herein, we describe the practical experimental procedures and methods associated with nano-PALDI-IMS for the visualization of these molecules.
Source: Springer protocols feed by Imaging/Radiology - Category: Radiology Source Type: news