Work

Nanoparticle-assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Applications in Astrobiology

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The search for extraterrestrial life relies on advanced and versatile analytical techniques capable of detecting organic molecules in planetary and astrobiological contexts. Laser desorption ionization (LDI) mass spectrometry (MS) is a promising technique for in situ molecular analysis in space missions due to its simplicity and robustness. Conventional laboratory methods, such as matrix-assisted LDI (MALDI), introduce contamination risks and background interferences, limiting their suitability for in situ planetary exploration. This study investigates the application of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) as ion yield enhancers in NP-assisted LDI-MS. Gold (Au) and silver (Ag) NPs were evaluated for their ability to improve the detection of astrobiologically relevant organic molecules—histidine and phylloquinone (vitamin K1)—using the space-prototype LDI-MS instrument ORIGIN. Results demonstrate that Au NP significantly improves the ion yield, achieving an about tenfold signal enhancement for histidine and a fivefold increase for vitamin K1 at the highest NP concentration used in this study. In contrast, Ag NP provided limited enhancement for histidine and reduced signal intensity for vitamin K1. Therefore, these findings highlight the potential of Au NP to enhance LDI-MS sensitivity for future space exploration applications.

Source: The Planetary Science Journal

DOI: 10.3847/psj/ae9c2d

Authors: Nikita J. Boeren, Peter Keresztes Schmidt, Marek Tulej, Peter Wurz, Andreas Riedo

Institution: University of Bern

Language: English

Topic: Mass Spectrometry Techniques and Applications

Subfield: Spectroscopy

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,800

Funders: National Science Foundation, Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung