Advances in the synthesis and application of gold nanoparticles for laser mass spectrometry: a mini review

Abstract

Laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS) techniques have emerged as powerful tools for analyzing compounds of natural and synthetic origins. However, conventional methods like matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) often suffer from background signals and limited detection capabilities, particularly for low molecular weight compounds. Surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization (SALDI) methodologies, utilizing nanomaterials, have shown promise in overcoming these limitations. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are among the most widely utilized nanomaterials in SALDI-MS applications. AuNPs offer several advantages over traditional MALDI matrices, such as reduced interference, internal calibration potential, and enhanced stability. They have been successfully employed for analyzing a diverse range of analytes, from low molecular weight (LMW) compounds to peptides, proteins, and biological entities. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of various synthesis methods, morphological properties, and comparisons with conventional MALDI matrices. Furthermore, it explores the application of AuNPs for analyzing LMW compounds and imaging various surfaces using LDI-MS techniques.

Keywords:

• Gold nanoparticles
• SALDI
• low molecular weight compounds
• LDI-MS
• LDI-MSI

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The reported study was supported mainly by National Science Centre (Poland), research project SONATA BIS 12 Number UMO-2022/46/E/ST4/00016 and by the Minister of Science and Higher Education Republic of Poland within the program “Regional Excellence Initiative” for Rzeszow University of Technology, 2024-2027.