High-performance thin-layer chromatography/mass spectrometry for the analysis of neutral glycosphingolipids

This mini-review summarizes the protocol we have developed for the analysis of neutral glycosphingolipids (GSLs) by high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC)–mass spectrometry (MS). We also present results obtained using this glycolipidomic approach to study neutral GSLs from mouse kidney, spleen, and small intestine. Finally, we discuss what is required for further development of this method, as well as what is expected for the future of glycolipid biology. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Lipodomics and Imaging Mass Spectrometry.

► The protocol for the analysis of neutral glycosphingolipids (GSLs) by high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC)-mass spectrometry (MS). ► Mass spectra of neutral GSLs prepared from mouse kidney, spleen, and small intestine. ► Coupling of the bird eye overview of GSLs by HPTLC with precise structural information by MS. ► Discussion on other MS methods for GSLs and further development of HPTLC-MS.