Method for sequencing RNA by in-source decay using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometer

Abstract

An analytic method is provided for obtaining much sequence information by causing in-source decay of modified RNA and non-modified RNA and generating many fragment ions. Particularly, a method for analysis wherein a matrix that efficiently causes decomposition by in-source decay of RNA of 20 bases or longer is used in an apparatus that has a laser of a wavelength commonly used in MALDI-TOF MS. A specimen containing RNA is subjected to matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry that uses 2,4-dihydroxyacetophenone as a matrix to obtain fragment ions derived from the RNA. The difference in mass between the peaks of ions in the fragment ions is used to analyze the sequence of the RNA.

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