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Analysis of Volatile and Oxidation Sensitive Compounds Using a Cold Inlet System and Electron Impact Mass Spectrometry
Published on: September 5, 2014
New ionization processes and applications for use in mass spectrometry
Sarah Trimpin1, Beixi Wang, Christopher B Lietz
1Department of Chemistry, Wayne State University , Detroit, MI , USA.
Critical Reviews in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
|July 26, 2013
Summary
New ionization techniques are crucial for advancing mass spectrometry (MS) in biological and medical research. Efficient ionization methods are needed to complement improvements in mass analyzers and fragmentation for comprehensive sample analysis.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biotechnology
- Chemical Physics
Background:
- Mass spectrometry (MS) technology, particularly mass analyzers and fragmentation, has advanced rapidly.
- Current biological MS analyses predominantly rely on 1980s ionization methods like electrospray ionization (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI).
- Existing ionization techniques limit the full potential of advanced MS for detailed biological applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review fundamental aspects of novel ionization methods for mass spectrometry.
- To explore the potential of new ionization techniques in biological and medical applications.
- To highlight the need for ionization advancements to match progress in MS instrumentation.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent developments in ionization technologies for mass spectrometry.
- Discussion of fundamental principles underlying new ionization approaches.
- Analysis of potential applications in biological and medical fields.
Main Results:
- Ambient ionization methods offer convenient and direct sample analysis.
- Novel ionization techniques aim for more efficient molecule-to-ion conversion.
- Improved ionization is essential for high transfer efficiency to MS analyzers and detectors.
- These advancements promise a more complete understanding of sample composition.
Conclusions:
- Progress in mass spectrometry instrumentation necessitates parallel advancements in ionization technology.
- New ionization methods are key to unlocking the full potential of MS for complex biological analyses, including protein characterization and cellular localization.
- Efficient ionization is critical for comprehensive sample analysis and future MS applications in medicine and biology.
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