Mass Spectrometry-Based Imaging of Metabolites and Proteins

Imaging techniques based on mass spectrometry (MS) have become powerful approaches to decipher the spatial distribution of metabolites and proteins. MS imaging (MSI) mostly relies on matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization coupled to MS detection, but desorption electrospray ionization is also frequently used. Here we describe our current protocols for MALDI-MSI of seed sections and for root tissue. Detailed procedures for cryo-sectioning, matrix application, image capture, mass spectrometry measurement and data analysis are given.