Optimization of matrix conditions for the control of MALDI in-source decay of permethylated glycans.

Due to its fastness and its easiness to use, MALDI-MS is currently an analytical tool widely used in glycomic applications. However, the MALDI ionization process could result in the so-called "in-source decay", or ISD, of analytes, leading to complex spectra. On the other hand, ISD opens the possibility to perform pseudo-MS(3) experiments. This phenomenon must therefore be controlled in order to be used on demand as a supplementary tool for the analysis of permethylated glycans by MALDI mass spectrometry. For this purpose, several matrices were tested and MALDI imaging was used to determine optimal conditions promoting or, inversely, avoiding ISD of permethylated glycans. 2,5-DHB was shown to be a versatile matrix allowing one to induce or prevent ISD according to the location of laser shots. Inversely, it was shown that 9-aminoacridine forms homogeneous spots and avoids completely ISD. This matrix would therefore be suitable for automatic analysis.