Volatile matrices for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry
AssigneeGenetrace Systems, Inc.
InventorsJoanna M. Hunter, Hua Lin, Christopher H. Becker
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Abstract
A sample preparation method is disclosed for volatilization and mass spectrometric analysis of nonvolatile high molecular weight molecules. Photoabsorbing molecules having significant sublimation rates at room temperature under vacuum, and preferably containing hydroxy functionalities, are disclosed for use as matrices in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. The samples are typically cooled in the mass spectrometer to temperatures significantly below room temperature.
Claims55
A method for determining the mass of a large organic molecule, said method comprising:
- (a) contacting said large organic molecule with a photoabsorbing low-sublimation temperature matrix to produce a matrix:molecule mixture;
- (b) desorbing and ionizing said molecule;
- and
- (c) determining the mass of said ionized large organic molecule by mass spectrometry.
A method for preparing a sample of large organic molecules for mass spectral analysis, said method comprising:
- a) providing a solution comprising said large organic molecule to be analyzed, a volatile, light-absorbing hydroxy-bearing matrix composition, and a solvent;
- and
- b) evaporating said solvent to provide a solid matrix material containing the molecule to be analyzed.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.