How MALDI-TOF Reads Biomolecules

MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry reads biomolecules by using a laser, a matrix, and a time-of-flight analyzer. MALDI, or matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization, helps fragile molecules keep their structure while they are moved into the mass analyzer. The analyzer then separates compounds based on size and charge.

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization, or MALDI, is a mass spectrometry ion source ideal for the analysis of biomolecules. Most ion sources remove structural information from large, fragile biomolecules. MALDI maintains structural integrity, and therefore information, while accelerating the molecules into the mass analyzer, which separates...