MALDI
Confident and clear molecular visualization
Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI) is a mass spectrometry (MS) imaging technology designed to provide information-rich molecular visualization data direct from samples prepared with a matrix. MALDI provides excellent spatial resolution across a wide variety of applications from small molecule to peptide and small protein applications in a well-established MS imaging approach.
With the MALDI imaging technique, the matrix coated sample (often a thin tissue section) is moved in the x,y dimensions while individual mass spectra are recorded as a laser desorbs molecules from the surface – so the distribution of many analytes of a wide range of classes can be recorded in-situ directly, all at the same time. MALDI can be paired with the complementary imaging technique, Desorption Electrospray Ionization (DESI) for full spectrum molecular imaging. As DESI requires no matrix addition, the order of analysis allows for DESI followed by matrix addition and subsequent MALDI analysis on the same sample.
MALDI is an available option for both the SYNAPT XS and the Cyclic IMS P20.
Overview
- Visualize the molecular distribution of many analytes of a wide range of classes like peptides, glycans, lipids, and metabolites simultaneously with an established and valuable technique of laser desorption with the addition of a matrix
- With the newly designed MALDI source for the Cyclic IMS P20, achieve lateral resolution of 15 µm without oversampling, in addition to data acquisition rates of 10 pixels per second
- Generate clearer images that facilitate differentiation of molecular features directly to correlate with anatomical tissue structures
- Follow complementary DESI imaging with subsequent MALDI imaging of the same sample for a complete picture
Recommended Use: A selection of MALDI solutions providing excellent spatial resolution across a wide variety applications using a well-established MS imaging approach.
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MALDI imaging basics
MALDI imaging uses an organic matrix, typically a small organic acid, prepared directly on the sample. During ionization, the matrix facilitates the generation of ions by transfer of energy from the laser to the sample via desorption. The process operates under an intermediate vacuum in the MALDI source.
This technique is ideal for a variety of analytes, including lipids, metabolites, sugars, and peptides. The image lateral resolution can be varied from 15 µm depending upon analytical needs.
Highest performing MS imaging with Cyclic IMS P20
The Cyclic IMS P20 Mass Spectrometer delivers clearer, more confident interpretation of complex biology. By combining high‑resolution cyclic ion mobility with precise mass analysis it separates co‑eluting and isomeric species —simplifying complex ion populations and enabling more interpretable data. Combined MALDI XS and DESI XS capabilities enable complementary surface and spatially resolved analyses, while ion mobility reduces spectral overlap to improve molecular specificity in complex imaging and profiling workflows.
Highly flexible routine MS imaging with SYNAPT XS
The SYNAPT XS is a flexible system which offers both MALDI and DESI XS MS imaging modalities for Full Spectrum Molecular Imaging. With a routine pixel sizing of 45 µM for MALDI analyses and 15 µM with oversampling, it provides a platform for routine MALDI analysis. The combination of MALDI and DESI XS with ion mobility, SONAR & DDA acquisition modes make the SYNAPT XS an ideal routine solution for the interrogation of complex mixtures.
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