Nanomaterial-Based Surface-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry of Peptides and Proteins

We have investigated six nanomaterials for their applicability as surfaces for the analyses of peptides and proteins using surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS). Gold nanoparticles (NPs) were useful nanomaterials for small analytes (e.g., glutathione); Pt nanosponges and Fe3O4 NPs were efficient nanomaterials for proteins, with an upper detectable mass limit of ca. 25 kDa. Nanomaterials have several advantages over organic matrices, including lower limits of detection for small analytes and lower batch-to-batch variations (fewer problems associated with “sweet spots”), when used in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

Graphical AbstractSALDI mass spectrum of 50 pmol chymotrypsin recorded using Pt nanosponges.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (53 K)Download as PowerPoint slide