Question

MALDI is a technique of ______________________

(a) ionization

(b) fractionation

(c) proteolysis

(d) cell counting

I had been asked this question at a job interview.

I need to ask this question from Techniques topic in section Techniques in Cell Biology of Cell Biology

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(a) ionization

Explanation:

MALDI stands for Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization, which is a technique used in mass spectrometry for the ionization of biomolecules, particularly large molecules such as proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, and other macromolecules. The method involves embedding the sample in a matrix and using a laser to ionize the molecules, allowing them to be analyzed in a mass spectrometer.

• Ionization: In MALDI, the laser light causes the sample to be ionized, which then enters the mass spectrometer for analysis.

The other options are incorrect because:

• Fractionation typically refers to separating components of a mixture, which is not the primary goal of MALDI.
• Proteolysis refers to the breakdown of proteins into smaller peptides, which is a separate process.
• Cell counting involves counting cells, which is not related to the MALDI technique.

Correct Answer: (a) ionization