Hydrophobic Organosilane Coated Sample Plate for MALDI
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Solution Overview
Problem
MALDI mass spectrometry suffers from analysis insensitivity due to non-uniform distribution of matrix crystals on metallic sample plates, leading to contamination issues and high costs associated with reusable plates, necessitating a more effective and cost-efficient sample plate design for biomolecule analysis.
Innovation Solution
A sample plate comprising a separable sample microfocusing plate with a hydrophobic organosilane coating and a conductive substrate, where the microfocusing plate can be reused or used as a disposable type, featuring precisely controlled dimensions and a manufacturing process utilizing photolithography for cost-effectiveness and improved resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metallic sample plate with smooth hydrophilic surface is used, then the plate provides chemical stability and proper work function for ionization, but the applied specimen drop spreads over a relatively large area leading to non-uniform crystal distribution and analysis insensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a hydrophobic coating layer to specific regions (sampling areas) of the metallic plate surface, creating local hydrophobic zones that confine specimen drops to small areas (0.5-2 mm diameter), while the rest of the plate maintains its hydrophilic metallic properties for chemical stability and ionization
2Reliability
If reusable metallic sample plates are used, then the plates provide proper ionization characteristics, but contamination issues arise and high costs are associated with maintaining and reusing the plates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the sampling areas disposable by coating them with a hydrophobic layer on a metallic substrate, allowing the sampling areas to be discarded after use while the metallic plate can be reused or the entire assembly can be replaced at low cost, eliminating contamination issues
3Measurement precision
If a hydrophobic coating is applied to the sample plate surface, then uniform sample distribution and crystal formation are achieved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the surface energy parameter of specific regions by applying a hydrophobic coating layer, transforming the surface properties from hydrophilic to hydrophobic to control liquid distribution, while using simple dip-coating or spray-coating methods to keep manufacturing straightforward
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides enhanced sensitivity and resolution in MALDI mass spectrometry by ensuring uniform sample distribution, reducing contamination, and offering a cost-effective, disposable option while maintaining the stability and accuracy of standard metal plates.
Implementation Method 1
a patterned hydrophobic organosilane coating layer... formed on the surface
Implementation Method 2
The matrix is an energy absorbing substance which absorbs energy from the laser beam thereby enabling analyte to desorb from the sample plate
Implementation Method 3
laser beam is directed to the sample plate. Photon bombardment causes the matrix and the analyte to be desorbed and ionized
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a sample microfocusing plate useful in MALDI mass spectrometry having a patterned hydrophobic organosilane coating layer and at least a central portion formed on the surface and a process for manufacturing and using the sample microfocusing plate. The sample microfocusing plate can rapidly dry the solvent contained in samples leading to efficient sample analysis, and can be prepared by cost effectiveness.