Improved detection of higher molecular weight proteins by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry on polytetrafluoroethylene surfaces

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS) of proteins was performed on a range of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surfaces. Sinapinic acid and α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid matrices were compared and the order of application varied to identify the best combination for each surface. It is demonstrated that the use of a PTFE surface improves the intensity of signals obtained for higher molecular weight proteins. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.