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Toward Revealing Microcystin Distribution in Mouse Liver Tissue Using MALDI-MS Imaging
Daria Kucheriavaia1, Dušan Veličković2, Nicholas Peraino3
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA.
Toxins
|October 22, 2021
Summary
Researchers monitored microcystin-LR (MC-LR) distribution in mouse livers using advanced mass spectrometry. Improved methods enabled unambiguous detection of MC-LR in liver tissues, aiding toxin distribution studies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Cyanotoxins, like microcystin-LR (MC-LR), pose risks during harmful algal blooms.
- Monitoring toxin distribution in organs is crucial for understanding health effects.
- Previous MALDI-MS imaging yielded ambiguous results for MC-LR in liver tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution of hepatotoxic microcystin-LR (MC-LR) in mouse liver tissues.
- To improve and apply matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) imaging for MC-LR detection.
Main Methods:
- Mice were gavaged with MC-LR.
- Liver tissues were prepared using an automated sprayer for matrix deposition.
- MALDI-MS imaging was performed using an Nd:YAG laser coupled to a 15 Tesla FT-ICR-mass spectrometer.
Main Results:
- High-resolution MALDI-FT-ICR-MS imaging provided unambiguous detection of MC-LR.
- Protonated MC-LR and its sodium adduct were identified with high mass accuracy and resolution.
- The distribution of free MC-LR in liver sections was successfully monitored.
Conclusions:
- Optimized MALDI-MS imaging is effective for detecting MC-LR distribution in biological tissues.
- This technique aids in understanding the toxicokinetics and health impacts of cyanotoxins.
