American Society of Hirudotherapy

Specific MALDI-MSI: Tag-Mass

Basic science / preclinical published in Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.) (2010)

Last Updated: March 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Genomics & ProteomicsStauber J et al. · Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.), 2010

Abstract

MALDI imaging as a molecular mass spectrometry imaging technique (MSI) can provide accurate information about molecular composition on a surface. The last decade of MSI development has brought the technology to clinical and biomedical applications as a complementary technique of MRI and other molecular imaging. Then, this IMS technique is used for endogenous and exogenous molecule detection in pharmaceutical and biomedical fields. However, some limitations still exist due to physical and chemical aspects, and sensitivity of certain compounds is very low. Thus, we developed a multiplex technique for fast detection of different compound natures. The multiplex MALDI imaging technique uses a photocleavable group that can be detect easily by MALDI instrument. These techniques of targeted imaging using Tag-Mass molecules allow the multiplex detection of compounds like antibodies or oligonucleotides. Here, we describe how we used this technique to detect huge proteins and mRNA by MALDI imaging in rat brain and in a model for regeneration; the leech.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeJournal ArticleResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsDiagnostic ImagingLeechesModels, TheoreticalRNA, MessengerRatsSpectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-IonizationTandem Mass Spectrometry

Summary

MALDI imaging as a molecular mass spectrometry imaging technique (MSI) can provide accurate information about molecular composition on a surface. The last decade of MSI development has brought the technology to clinical and biomedical applications as a complementary technique of MRI and other molecular imaging.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

Expands the genomic and molecular understanding of medicinal leeches and their bioactive repertoire.

Citation

Specific MALDI-MSI: Tag-Mass.

Stauber J et al. · Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.), 2010

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: March 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Specific MALDI-MSI: Tag-Mass | ASH