Tissue preparation for MALDI-MS imaging of protein and peptides

Abstract

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) imaging is rapidly gaining importance in the biomarkers fi eld because it is able to detect several analytes at the same time and to assign to each one of them not only an m / z value but also spatial distribution. Here we present the detailed description of sample preparation for protein and peptide MALDI imaging assays. This chapter describes the microtomy performed in a cryostat to produce tissue slides mounted onto glass slides suitable for MALDI. Sample preparation will include matrix coating procedure with a sensor-controlled aerosol. Finally, we will show some examples of how data can be visualized to suit the purposes of the research.