Nano-MALDI and Nano-ESI MS

Chip-based techniques are impacting bioanalytical methodology at an increasing rate. The major reason for this is found in the benefits that may be gained by the scaling laws that govern the physics and chemistry, determining the performance of these systems. Mass spectrometry as an analytical tool has dramatically impacted and is still revolutionizing the way that bioanalytical research is executed. It can therefore be anticipated that the oncoming decade will demonstrate remarkable performance improvements in the area. Microscaled technologies have already proved to be an important route in advancing throughput, reducing sample volume requirements, and increasing readout sensitivity in mass spectrometry. In this respect, the current chapter overviews some of the strategies pursued to gain system performance as the dimensions were reduced when processing and delivering biological sample for MS readout.

Keywords: miniaturization; chip; MALDI; ESI; nanoproteomics