MALDI Matrix Application Utilizing a Modified 3D Printer for Accessible High Resolution Mass Spectrometry Imaging

Successful matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) relies on the selection of the most appropriate matrix and optimization of the matrix application parameters. In order to achieve reproducible high spatial-resolution imaging data, several commercially available automated matrix application platforms have become available. However, the high cost of these commercial matrix sprayers is restricting access into this emerging research field. Here, we report an automated platform for matrix deposition, employing a converted commercially available 3D printer ($300) and other parts commonly found in an analytical chemistry lab as a low-cost alternative to commercial sprayers. Using printed fluorescent rhodamine B microarrays and employing experimental design, the matrix deposition parameters were optimized to minimize surface analyte diffusion. Finally, the optimized matrix application method was applied to image three-dimensional MCF-7 cell culture spheroid sections (ca. 500 mu m diameter tissue samples) and sections of mouse brain. Using this system, we demonstrate robust and reproducible observations of endogenous metabolite and steroid distributions with a high spatial resolution.