Mass spectrometry imaging

Mass spectrometry imaging is a technique that maps the spatial distribution of molecules within a sample, such as tissue sections. It works by systematically ionizing molecules from the sample's surface and measuring their mass-to-charge ratios with a mass spectrometer. As the process scans across the sample, it creates detailed images showing where specific compounds, like proteins, lipids, or drugs, are localized. This method provides valuable insights into the chemical makeup of tissues, aiding research in medicine, biology, and pathology without destroying the sample's structure.