Ionic-Liquid Matrices for Improved Analysis of Phospholipids by MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry

The use of ionic liquid matrices (ILMs) for phospholipids (PLs) affords higher signal intensity, smaller spot size, improved spot homogeneity, better signal reproducibility, and comparable or better detection limits compared to that of the crystalline matrix 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5-DHB). The ionization products are comparable to those with 2,5-DHB although the use of ILMs gives a stronger tendency to produce alkali-metal-ion adducts and a lower extent of prompt fragmentation.