Mass spectrometric detectors for samples separated by planar electrophoresis.

Mass spectrometric detection for samples separated by planar chromatography (high-performance thin-layer chromatography and planar electrophoresis) has evolved over the past 10 years from concept to feasibility and to commercial availability. This review concentrates on the interface between planar electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Although hardware aspects of the interface have been developed and refined over the past few years, and there are impressive demonstrations of feasibility, we are only beginning to exploit new methods in sample storage, preparation and reaction in conjunction with planar chromatographic separation, and new uses of complex multi-dimensional imaging data.