Mass Spectrometry Imaging.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Chemical Imaging
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is a powerful technique for mapping chemical distributions on surfaces.
• Its high sensitivity and information density per pixel have driven widespread adoption across various scientific fields.
• Technological advancements over three decades have established MSI as a mainstream molecular and elemental imaging tool.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution of Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) technology.
• To provide a concise technological understanding of different MSI approaches for researchers.
• To highlight key advancements in MSI instrumentation and applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of various MSI image acquisition modes and ionization techniques (MALDI, LA-ICP, LAESI, SIMS, DESI).
• Discussion of MSI instrumentation including mass analyzers, tandem MS, and ion mobility.
• Explanation of targeted MSI strategies like imaging mass cytometry (IMC) and multiplexed ion beam imaging (MIBI).

Main Results:

• Detailed examination of figures of merit (spatial resolution, sensitivity) for different MSI methods.
• Analysis of ionization mechanisms, sample preparation, and comparative advantages/disadvantages.
• Exploration of advancements in imaging throughput and multimodal imaging approaches.

Conclusions:

• MSI has significantly evolved, offering enhanced capabilities for untargeted and targeted chemical analysis.
• Technological progress continues to expand MSI applications in material science, life sciences, and clinical diagnostics.
• This review offers researchers a clear technological overview of current and emerging MSI techniques.