Spatial Metabolite Profiling by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging

Area of Science:

• Biomedical research
• Analytical chemistry

Background:

• Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is an evolving technique for spatial metabolite profiling.
• Understanding MSI's instrumentation, sample preparation, data analysis, and software is crucial for its application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive introduction to Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI).
• To review recent clinical applications of MSI in diverse research areas.
• To highlight practical considerations for MSI in complex biological systems.

Main Methods:

• Overview of various MSI instrumentation types.
• Detailed description of sample preparation and data collection protocols.
• Explanation of data analysis workflows, software, and standards.

Main Results:

• MSI has been increasingly deployed in clinical research over the past three years.
• Applications span diverse fields including cancer, neurobiology, and lipidomics.
• Examples showcase MSI's utility in unique systems with specialized requirements.

Conclusions:

• MSI is a powerful tool for spatial metabolite profiling with growing clinical relevance.
• The review provides a foundational understanding and practical insights into MSI techniques.
• MSI facilitates metabolite profiling and mapping in complex biological and clinical contexts.