MASS-SPECTROMETRIC DETECTORS FOR SAMPLES SEPARATED BY PLANAR ELECTROPHORESIS

Mass spectrometric detection for samples separated by planar chromatog raphy (high-performance thin-layer chromatography and planar electroph oresis) has evolved over the past 10 years from concept to feasibility and to commercial availability. This review concentrates on the inter face between planar electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Although ha rdware aspects of the interface have been developed and refined over t he past few years, and there are impressive demonstrations of feasibil ity, we are only beginning to exploit new methods in sample storage, p reparation and reaction in conjunction with planar chromatographic sep aration, and new uses of complex multi-dimensional imaging data.