| abstract |
The invention relates to sample carriers for the mass spectrometric analysis of biomolecules, methods for producing the sample carriers and methods for loading the sample carriers with samples of the biomolecules from predominantly aqueous solutions together with matrix substance for the ionization of the substances by matrix-assisted laser desorption (MALDI). DOLLAR A The invention consists in making the surface of the sample carrier highly liquid-repellent (hydrophobic), which forces a structure of the MALDI matrix crystals that is favorable for effective ionization when the sample droplets dry to sample spots. Tiny, wetting-friendly (hydrophilic) anchor areas for the sample droplets in this hydrophobic environment make the pipetting process much easier and the sample spots on the sample carrier can be located very precisely. When pipetting sample droplets, they pull back onto the hydrophilic anchor areas, even if applied slightly inaccurately, and dry there to form a monolithic crystal conglomerate which has favorable properties for the MALDI process. The method can be used in particular for oligonucleotide analysis with 3-hydroxypicolinic acid (3-HPA) as a matrix, but also for other MALDI preparation solutions for biomolecules. |