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An approach for broad molecular imaging of the root-soil interface via indirect matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry

Journal Article · · Soil Biology and Biochemistry
Understanding of rhizospheric processes is limited by the need for imaging complex molecular transformations at relevant spatial scales within the root soil continuum. In this work, we demonstrate a method to enable this analysis by first extracting organic compounds from the rhizosphere onto a PVDF membrane while maintaining their 2D distribution. We then image the distribution of chemical compounds using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS). This approach permitted us to visualize and identify compounds on the root surface and presumed root exudates in the rhizosphere. Within a 1.8 cm x 0.6 cm sampling area of a switchgrass rhizosphere, we could observe at least four chemically distinct zones. Using high performance Fourier transform ion cyclotron MS, we were able to accurately annotate numerous molecules co-localized to each of these zones.
Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States). Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL)
Sponsoring Organization:
National Science Foundation (NSF); USDOE; USDOE Office of Science (SC), Biological and Environmental Research (BER)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
1630119
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 1691988
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA--150080
Journal Information:
Soil Biology and Biochemistry, Journal Name: Soil Biology and Biochemistry Journal Issue: C Vol. 146; ISSN 0038-0717
Publisher:
ElsevierCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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