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Interfacing matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry with column and planar separations
1Rohm and Haas Company, Research Laboratories, Spring House, PA 19477-0904, USA. arkady.gusev@rohmhaas.com
Fresenius' Journal of Analytical Chemistry
|February 28, 2001
Summary
This review critically examines matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry coupled with liquid and planar separation techniques. It evaluates the strengths and limitations of both off-line and on-line coupling strategies for enhanced analytical workflows.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Mass Spectrometry
- Separation Science
Background:
- Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry is a key technique for analyzing biomolecules and synthetic polymers.
- Liquid column separations like HPLC, GPC, and CE, and planar separations like PAGE and TLC, are widely used for sample fractionation.
- Integrating MALDI with separation methods enhances analyte identification and characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a critical review of off-line and on-line coupling strategies for MALDI mass spectrometry with various separation techniques.
- To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different coupling approaches.
- To highlight the current state and future directions in MALDI hyphenated separation science.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on off-line coupling: MALDI analysis of fractions from HPLC, GPC, CE, and extracted spots from TLC and PAGE.
- Review of literature on on-line coupling: Direct MALDI analysis from TLC plates and PAGE gels, and various on-line coupling configurations with column separations.
- Critical evaluation of the methodologies, including sample preparation, data acquisition, and interpretation.
Main Results:
- Off-line MALDI analysis of collected fractions/spots is a routine laboratory practice.
- Direct MALDI analysis from TLC and PAGE, including 2D scanning, offers alternative approaches.
- Several on-line coupling strategies combining MALDI with column separations have been developed and reviewed.
Conclusions:
- Both off-line and on-line coupling methods offer distinct advantages and limitations for MALDI mass spectrometry applications.
- The choice of coupling strategy depends on the specific analytical challenge, sample type, and desired throughput.
- Continued development of hyphenated techniques promises to expand the capabilities of MALDI mass spectrometry in complex mixture analysis.