Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Fructooligosaccharides in Barley Seeds with the iMScopeQT

User Benefits

- The iMScope QT Imaging Mass Microscope allows MS imaging of fructooligosaccharides in barley seeds with high spatial resolution. This can be used to visualize the distribution of each fructooligosaccharide within the seed. - Using the iMLayer^TM Vapor deposition system for matrix application contributes to streamlined sample preparation and more repeatable analysis.

Introduction

Whole grains such as barley are of interest as a dietary solution to chronic lifestyle diseases, due to their high fiber content and overall nutritional value. BARLEYmax is a new variety of barley cultivated by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). It boasts increased fiber and fructan content and lower starch levels compared to other barley varieties. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are a type of fructan with a short molecular chain length, with beneficial effects on health such as improved intestinal function through their function as a probiotic. Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is a technique that combines optical imaging and mass spectrometry analysis, enabling visualization of the distribution of molecules within biological samples such as animal organs and plant tissues. In a previous study by Tamiya et. al., it was shown that three key fructooligosaccharides (FOS) could be detected in barley seeds including BARLEYmax using MALDI MSI: kestose (m/z 503.16), nystose (m/z 665.21) and fructosyl-nystose (m/z 827.26). In this previous study, the Shimadzu iMScope TRIO^TM system was used for analysis. Here we aim to demonstrate that the same FOS can be detected using the Shimadzu iMScope QT, a newer MSI instrument that offers higher speed and spatial resolution.

November 25, 2025 GMT