Mass spec technique analyzes defensive chemicals on seaweed surfaces for potential drugs
Monday, April 6, 2009 - 17:14
in Biology & Nature
A new analytical technique is helping scientists learn how organisms as simple as seaweed can mount complex chemical defenses to protect themselves from microbial threats such as fungus. Known as desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS), the technique for the first time allows researchers to study unique chemical activity taking place on the surfaces of these organisms.