Development of sheet-enhanced technique (Set) method for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry.

Rationale: The key to successful experiments in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) is to apply the matrix uniformly to the sample. With the development of automated equipment, uniform matrix application has made great progress while the sample preparation required to acquire a better image becomes complicated.

Methods: The approach is to apply the matrix uniformly to tape and adhere it to the tissue section. We call this the sheet-enhanced technique (Set) method.

Results: The Set method promotes ionization of biomolecules as well as the spray method. This procedure does not require the preparation and application of a matrix solution for each experiment, dramatically reducing the time and effort of matrix deposition.

Conclusions: In the present study, we have developed the Set method as a new matrix application method. The method promotes ionization of biomolecules as well as the spray method for MALDI-IMS.