Optical Microscopy-Guided Laser Ablation Electrospray Ionization Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry: Ambient Single Cell Metabolomics with Increased Confidence in Molecular Identification.

ABSTRACT: Single cell analysis is a field of increasing interest as new tools are continually being developed to understand intercellular differences within large cell populations. Laser-ablation electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LAESI-MS) is an emerging technique for single cell metabolomics. Over the years, it has been validated that this ionization technique is advantageous for probing the molecular content of individual cells in situ. Here, we report the integration of a microscope into the optical train of the LAESI source to allow for visually informed ambient in situ single cell analysis. Additionally, we have coupled this 'LAESI microscope' to a drift-tube ion mobility mass spectrometer to enable separation of isobaric species and allow for the determination of ion collision cross s

SUBMITTER: Taylor MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8065410 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature