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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Dithranol as a Matrix for Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Imaging on a Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometer
Published on: November 27, 2013
Molecular species analysis of lipids by metastable ion mass spectrometry
Abstract:
A convenient universal and fast mass spectrometrical method designed for the molecular species analysis of natural lipids is described. In contrast to the commonly employed procedures the method does not require chemical or enzymatic treatment and does not include chromatographic steps. The method relies on the recognition of ions characteristic of individual molecular species in the mass spectrum of a particular lipid fraction, that is accomplished on the basis of metastable ion spectra. The efficiency of this approach is demonstrated with a variety of natural lipids: triglycerides, glycerophospholipids, sphingomyelin and ornithinolipids. The advantages and limitations of the method as well as possible further developments are discussed.
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