MALDI-TOF analysis of mixtures of 3-deoxyanthocyanidins and anthocyanins

The mass spectrometric analysis of 3-deoxyanthocyanidins and anthocyanins present in crude extracts from sorghum plant tissue was carried out by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI). Sensitivities to as low as 5 pmol/μl were easily attained for pure samples of the anthocyanidin, pelargonidin, and the anthocyanin, malvin. Sensitivities to the level of 15 pmol/μl were attained for 3- deoxyanthocyanidins present in crude extracts from sorghum plant tissue. Through its capability for analyzing very small quantities of these compounds in unpurified samples, MALDI provided a sensitive means for the detection of these flavonoid pigments in plant tissues.link_to_subscribed_fulltex