The Study of 2,3,4-Trihydroxyacetophenone and 2,4,6-Trihydroxyacetophenone as Matrices for DNA Detection in Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry

The matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time‐of‐flight mass spectrometric study of DNA detection using 2,3,4‐trihydroxyacetophenone, 2,4,6‐trihydroxyacetophenone, and their combination has been carried out systematically. The results show that a mixture of 2,4,6‐trihydroxyacetophenone, 2,3,4‐trihydroxyacetophenone and ammonium citrate with molar ratios of 2:1:1 serves as a good matrix for the detection of DNA, especially for samples containing a small quantity of DNA such as polymerase chain reaction product. The resolution and shot‐to‐shot reproducibility using this matrix are better than, and the MALDI sensitivity comparable to, that obtained when using 3‐hydroxy picotinic acid (3‐HPA), PA and ammonium citrate matrix (9:1:1). The mechanism of desorption/ionization using this matrix is discussed.