Langartech: A Custom-Made MALDI Matrix Sprayer for MALDI Imaging Mass Spectrometry

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) is a powerful tool for investigating the distribution of proteins and other molecules within biological systems through the in situ analysis of tissue sections, enabling molecular histology. MALDI IMS can determine the distribution of hundreds of unknown compounds in a single measurement while maintaining spatial and molecular integrity. The matrix spraying stage is a key factor in making this technique more sensitive and robust. In this article, we describe a custom-made matrix sprayer (Langartech), which is both inexpensive (estimated cost of about Euro3000, or $3500) and reliable compared with the alternatives present in the market today, with prices greater than Euro20,000 ($25,000). Several comparisons were made between our Langartech sprayer and one of the high-end matrix sprayers commercially available: ImagePrep (Bruker Daltonics). Focusing on lateral resolution and observed peak intensities, overall results show that our sprayer behaves in a very competitive fashion, especially when taking into account the huge difference in sophistication level and price.