A membrane separation technique for optimizing sample preparation of MALDI-TOF MS detection

The performance of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) is frequently compromised by the high limited of detection, heterogeneous distribution of matrix and analyte deposits and time-consuming drying time during the conventional drop drying procedure. Here, we describe a method based on membrane separation technology to assist in the drying of nanomaterials to rapidly make homogeneous sample spots and to enhance the mass signal. We demonstrate that the sample can be dried evenly in a few seconds and MS signal can be greatly optimized by using membrane separation technology. Enrichment with nanomaterials greatly enhances analyte signal strength while membrane separation method avoids the time-consuming requirements of searching for “sweet spots”.