Mass spectrometry imaging maps the location of secondary metabolites inside plant tissues. Researchers apply this technique to ethnomedicinally important species.
First, they prepare thin sections of leaves, stems, or roots. Next, they place these sections into a specialized mass spectrometry system. The instrument then scans the tissue surface point by point.
As a result, it detects and identifies various compounds at each location. Moreover, the method generates detailed images that show exactly where each metabolite accumulates. Therefore, scientists can visualize the distribution of alkaloids, flavonoids, or other bioactive molecules without extracting them first.
In addition, this approach preserves the natural spatial arrangement of compounds within the plant. Finally, the data help researchers understand how these metabolites support traditional medicinal uses and guide further pharmacological studies.
CMP Bio World 