Mass spectometry imaging: optimization of sample preparation and metabolite identification through MS/MS

Abstract

Metabolomics consists in the study of small molecules called metabolites which are present in living organisms. These low mass compounds are the ultimate answer to perturbations produced in the organism. Therefore, their quantification and identification lead to a reading out of the cellular state. In order to obtain this information, analytical techniques are employed. The use of mass spectrometry imaging allows to obtain structural and spatial distribution information of the studied sample. Two important points are considered when this analysis is undergone: tissue sample preparation and metabolites identification. The present work is focused to improve these difficulties in various plant tissues utilizing Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI) imaging as instrument. This project has been carried out at the Institut de Diagnosi Ambiental i Estudis de l’Aigua (IDAEA) laboratories of Consell Superior d’Investigacions Científiques (CSIC)