Preservation of spatial resolution with use of a phase-transition extraction matrix in chromatography/secondary ion mass spectrometry

Direct TLC-MALDI coupling using a hybrid plate

A new TLC-MALDI direct coupling method which recovers approximately 100% of the analyte is presented. The method makes use of a hybrid TLC-MALDI plate in which a silica layer and a MALDI layer are configured adjacently on a common backing. After TLC separation, the plate is rotated 90 degrees and the separated analyte spots are eluted from the silica layer to the MALDI layer via capillary action of the MALDI layer. Signal-to-noise ratios are significantly improved over previously reported coupling methods. Low-femtomole detection limits have been demonstrated for small cyclic peptides, which are comparable to detection limits for standard MALDI measurements.

Mass spectrometric detectors for samples separated by planar electrophoresis

Mass spectrometric detection for samples separated by planar chromatography (high-performance thin-layer chromatography and planar electrophoresis) has evolved over the past 10 years from concept to feasibility and to commercial availability. This review concentrates on the interface between planar electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Although hardware aspects of the interface have been developed and refined over the past few years, and there are impressive demonstrations of feasibility, we are only beginning to exploit new methods in sample storage, preparation and reaction in conjunction with planar chromatographic separation, and new uses of complex multi-dimensional imaging data.