System and method of infrared matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry in polyacrylamide gels

A method for desorption and ionization of analytes, comprising the steps of:

• e. preparing a sample having analytes and a polyacrylamide medium having at least one component;
• f. selecting a resonant vibrational mode of at least one component of the medium;
• g. selecting a laser tuned to emit light substantially at the wavelength of the selected vibrational mode;
• and
• h. irradiating the sample with laser light to cause medium ablation an desorption and ionization of the analytes,
• wherein the preparing step comprises a step of stabilizing the sample for ompatibility with high-vacuum conditions, wherein the stabilizing step comprises a step of freezing the sample at a sufficiently low temperature so that at least part of the sample has an increase in viscosity and a decrease in vapor pressure.

A method for desorption and ionization of analytes, comprising the steps of:

• a. preparing a sample having analytes in a medium including at least one component;
• b. freezing the sample at a sufficiently low temperature so that at least part of the sample has an increase in viscosity and a decrease in vapor pressure ;
• and
• c. irradiating the frozen sample with short-pulse radiation to cause medium ablation and desorption and ionization of the analytes,
• wherein the medium includes an electrophoresis medium.

A method for desorption and ionization of analytes, comprising the steps of:

• a. preparing a sample having analytes in a medium including at least one component;
• b. freezing the sample at a sufficiently low temperature so that at least part of the sample has an increase in viscosity and a decrease in vapor pressure ;
• and
• c. irradiating the frozen sample with short-pulse radiation to cause medium ablation and desorption and ionization of the analytes,
• wherein the step of preparing a sample comprises a step of spatially separating the analytes within the medium by electrophoresis.

A system for desorption and ionization of analytes, comprising:

• a. means for preparing a sample having analytes in a medium including at least one component;
• b. means for freezing the sample at a sufficiently low temperature so that at least part of the sample has an increase in viscosity and a decrease in vapor pressure;
• and
• c. means for irradiating the frozen sample with short-pulse radiation to cause medium ablation and desorption and ionization of the analytes,
• wherein the medium includes an electrophoresis medium.