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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
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Whole-body Mass Spectrometry Imaging by Infrared Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption Electrospray Ionization (IR-MALDESI)
Published on: March 24, 2016
Imaging mass spectrometry: hype or hope?
Ron M A Heeren1, Donald F Smith, Jonathan Stauber
1FOM Institute for Atomic and Molecular Physics, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. heeren@amolf.nl
Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry
|March 26, 2009
Summary
Imaging mass spectrometry (MS) offers direct biomolecular pattern examination in tissues, aiding diagnostics and histology. This insight critically evaluates MS imaging technology and sample preparation for biomedical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical science
- Analytical chemistry
- Molecular imaging
Background:
- Imaging mass spectrometry (MS) is gaining attention for direct biomolecular pattern analysis in cells and tissues.
- It holds potential for biomedical diagnostics and molecular histology.
- Applications range from cancer tissue sections to art analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically assess the parameters, challenges, and opportunities of MS imaging in biomedical tissue studies.
- To determine if MS imaging is a technological hype or a genuine tool for understanding molecular processes in living tissue.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of key aspects of MS imaging technology.
- Analysis of sample preparation techniques influencing experimental outcomes.
Main Results:
- Identifies critical parameters controlling MS imaging applications in biomedical research.
- Evaluates the potential and limitations of current MS imaging technology.
Conclusions:
- MS imaging offers significant potential for biomedical diagnostics and molecular histology.
- Careful consideration of technology and sample preparation is crucial for successful MS imaging studies.
- Further research is needed to fully realize the insights offered by MS imaging in living tissues.
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