Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Single-throughput Complementary High-resolution Analytical Techniques for Characterizing Complex Natural Organic Matter Mixtures
Published on: January 7, 2019
New insights from MALDI-ToF MS, NMR, and GC-MS: mass spectrometry techniques applied to palynology
S E M Moore1, A R Hemsley, A N French
1Laboratory for Experimental Palynology, School of Earth, Ocean and Planetary Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom. susannahmoore@yahoo.de
Abstract:
The present study for the first time describes the application of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF MS) to palynology. With an accessible mass range of up to about 350,000 Da at subpicomolar range, this technique is ideal for the characterisation of bio-macromolecules, such as sporopollenin, found in fossil and extant pollen and spore walls, which often can only be isolated in very small quantities. At this stage, the limited solubility of sporopollenin allows for the identification of sections of this biopolymer, but with the optimisation of MALDI-ToF matrices, further structure elucidation will become possible. Furthermore, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H NMR) spectroscopy data obtained from a number of experiments revealed that some previously reported data were misinterpreted. These results add support to the hypothesis that common plasticizers were wrongly described as sporopollenin compounds.
More Related Videos
07:45Technical Approach for Structural Analysis of an Unknown Compound in Huoxiang Zhengqi Oral Liquid based on Linear Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry
Published on: April 3, 2026
08:43PTR-ToF-MS Coupled with an Automated Sampling System and Tailored Data Analysis for Food Studies: Bioprocess Monitoring, Screening and Nose-space Analysis
Published on: May 11, 2017
Related Concept Videos
MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
Mass Spectrometry: Complex Analysis
GC–MS is a powerful hyphenated method commonly used in forensics and environmental...
Peptide Identification Using Tandem Mass Spectrometry
This technique helps gather information regarding the protein from which the peptide was obtained and to study the peptides’ amino acid sequence. Identifying peptides from a complex mixture is an important component of the growing field of...
Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Rapid Identification of Pathogens
Mass Spectrometry: Overview