Preparation of test plates for matrix assisted laser desorption ionization

摘要

The present invention is directed, sample test plates that can be used in matrix assisted laser desorption ionization. These plates have an etched surface and a layer of MALDI matrix material. The invention also includes methods for making these sample test plates and to methods for using the plates in the MS imaging of cell and tissue samples.

主权项

1. A method of preparing a sample test plate suitable for matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) of a cell or a tissue sample and comprising a solid support that is coated on its surface with a dry layer of MALDI matrix material, said method comprising:
a) etching the surface of said solid support using a photolithography etching technique to provide sites for crystal nucleation; b) applying a layer of MALDI matrix solution or suspension to substantially the entire surface of the solid support; c) allowing matrix particles to crystallize on said surface; and d) either concurrently or subsequently, removing solvent from said solution or suspension to produce a dry layer of MALDI matrix material providing a homogenous coverage of the solid support, wherein the dry layer of MALDI matrix material is substantially free of cells or tissue samples.