Mass spectrometry-based tissue imaging of small molecules

Area of Science:

• Biomedical research
• Analytical chemistry
• Pharmacokinetics

Background:

• Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is an emerging analytical technique for tissue samples.
• It offers a faster alternative to traditional imaging methods, reducing labor.
• MSI provides accurate histological data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the utility of MSI for analyzing small molecules in biomedical and pharmacokinetic studies.
• To showcase the application of MSI in the analysis of lipids, medicinals, and metal-based compounds.
• To review successful global MSI laboratory studies.

Main Methods:

• Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) of tissue samples.
• Analysis of molecules within the small molecule mass range.
• Review of representative studies from international MSI laboratories.

Main Results:

• MSI is applicable to a wide range of biologically relevant molecules.
• Successful applications of MSI in analyzing lipids, medicinals, and metal-based compounds were demonstrated.
• The technique provides accurate histological data rapidly.

Conclusions:

• Mass spectrometry imaging is a powerful tool for small molecule analysis in biomedical and pharmacokinetic research.
• Its ability to analyze diverse compounds like lipids, drugs, and metals offers significant potential.
• MSI streamlines traditional protocols, accelerating research pace and data acquisition.