Multi-Modal Mass Spectrometric Imaging of Uveal Melanoma

Matrix assisted laser desorption ionisation mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI), was used to obtain images of lipids and metabolite distribution in formalin fixed embedded paraffin (FFPE) whole eye sections containing primary uveal melanomas (UM). Using this technique, it possible lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) type lipid that highlighted the tumour regions. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma (LA-ICP-MS) performed on UM showed increases copper within periphery intratumoural zinc tissue from patients with poor prognosis. These preliminary data indicate multi-modal MSI has potential provide insights into role trace metals cancer metastasis.