A multiplex GC-MS/MS technique for the sensitive and quantitative single-run analysis of acidic phytohormones and related compounds, and its application to Arabidopsis thaliana.

A highly sensitive and accurate multiplex gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) technique is reported for indole-3-acetic acid, abscisic acid, jasmonic acid, 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid and salicylic acid. The optimized setup allows the routine processing and analysis of up to 60 plant samples of between 20 and 200 mg of fresh weight per day. The protocol was designed and the equipment used was chosen to facilitate implementation of the method into other laboratories and to provide access to state-of-the-art analytical tools for the acidic phytohormones and related signalling molecules. Whole-plant organ-distribution maps for indole-3-acetic acid, abscisic acid, jasmonic acid, 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid and salicylic acid were generated for Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. For leaves of A. thaliana, a spatial resolution of hormone quantitation down to approximately 2 mm(2) was achieved.