Development of a Matrix Sublimation Device with Controllable Crystallization Temperature for MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging

The size and distribution of matrix crystals deposited on the surface of a tissue section play a key role in the performance of MALDI mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI). In this study, uniform distribution and a restricted size of matrix crystals were achieved via a homemade matrix sublimation device with controllable crystallization temperature. The crystallization temperature was stably controlled at a subzero temperature, and homogeneous matrix crystals with diameters <0.2 mu m were generated on the sample surface. Typical MALDI-MSI experiments of endogenous and exogenous components in the tissues of strawberries, kidneys, and mussels were conducted to examine the performance of the sublimator. Good reproducibility of MALDI-MSI was achieved, and the quality of ion images was significantly improved. These results demonstrate that the developed sublimator should have potential in matrix deposition for further high resolution MALDI-MSI application.

Automated summary

The study utilized a homemade matrix sublimation device to achieve uniform distribution and restricted size of matrix crystals on the sample surface, resulting in improved performance and quality of ion images in MALDI mass spectrometry imaging. The sublimator showed good reproducibility in MALDI-MSI experiments of endogenous and exogenous components in strawberry, kidney, and mussel tissues, indicating its potential for high resolution MALDI-MSI applications.