Through-Hole Sample Support for MALDI Imaging Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) methods for imaging mass spectrometry face limitations in increasing image resolution when analyzing two-dimensional distributions of high-molecular-weight samples.
Innovation Solution
A laser desorption/ionization method involving a sample support body with a substrate having through holes and a conductive layer on one surface, where a matrix is provided in the holes, allowing components of the sample to be ionized by laser light while maintaining position information, and a voltage is applied to enhance ionization and resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MALDI method is used for imaging mass spectrometry, then high-molecular-weight samples can be ionized, but the image resolution cannot be improved
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate is divided into multiple through-holes, each containing matrix. This segmentation allows sample components to be concentrated in discrete locations, improving spatial resolution while maintaining reliable ionization of high-molecular-weight samples through the matrix-assisted process in each hole
Solution Approach 2:
Matrix is locally provided only in the through-holes of the substrate rather than uniformly across the entire surface. This creates localized zones of high matrix concentration that enhance ionization efficiency for high-molecular-weight samples while the spaced arrangement of holes preserves position information for improved image resolution
2Measurement precision
If sample components are moved through through-holes for position information maintenance, then image resolution is improved, but ionization efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate with through-holes creates a porous structure that allows sample components to move through while maintaining position information. The matrix filled in these holes provides localized ionization zones that compensate for the reduced sample-matrix interaction area, maintaining ionization efficiency despite the spatial separation
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix acts as an intermediary substance that facilitates ionization of sample components after they move through the through-holes. The matrix absorbs laser energy and transfers it to the sample components, enabling efficient ionization even when samples are spatially distributed across multiple hole locations
3Use of energy by moving object
If voltage is applied to conductive layer for enhanced ionization, then ionization efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive layer serves multiple functions: it provides electrical conductivity for voltage application to enhance ionization efficiency, and it forms an integral part of the sample support body structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
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
This method effectively ionizes high-molecular-weight samples and improves image resolution in imaging mass spectrometry by using capillary phenomena and controlled energy transfer, allowing for precise two-dimensional distribution analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a matrix that absorbs laser light
Implementation Method 2
ionizing the sample by irradiating the sample with laser light
Implementation Method 3
ionizing a component of the sample that is mixed with the matrix
Implementation Method 4
the component of the sample is moved to the first surface side from the second surface side through the through hole by a capillary phenomenon
Data Source
AI summary
A laser desorption/ionization method, includes: a first step of preparing a sample support body including a substrate on which a plurality of through holes opening to a first surface and a second surface facing each other are formed, a conductive layer provided on at least the first surface, and a matrix provided in the plurality of through holes; a second step of mounting a sample on a mounting surface of a mounting portion, and of disposing the sample support body on the sample such that the second surface is in contact with the sample; and a third step of ionizing a component of the sample that is mixed with the matrix and is moved to the first surface side from the second surface side through the through hole by irradiating the first surface with laser light while a voltage is applied to the conductive layer.