Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
5-2015
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M.S.
Department
Chemistry
Degree Program
Chemistry, MS
Committee Chair
Yappert, Cecilia
Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)
Borchman, Douglas
Committee Member
Zamborini, Francis Patrick
Subject
Salicylic acid; Mass spectrometry
Abstract
The biosynthetic pathway leading to the production of anacardic acids (AnAcs) in glandular trichomes on the surface of geranium plants remains unclear. Anacardic acids are salicylic acid derivatives known to possess various medicinal benefits. Gene silencing techniques, such as RNA interference, could be useful in determining specific enzymes involved in the synthesis of AnAcs. However, it is first necessary to develop methodologies to image AnAcs. In this project, both fluorescence (FL) and mass spectral imaging (MSI) were tested. Our results indicate that cellular imaging of AnAcs, via FL, is not suitable because the spectral ranges of absorption and emission of AnAcs fall within the same range of common cellular components. Furthermore, FL cannot distinguish among various AnAcs. Fortunately, and with the use of a new and stable matrix, bis(p-nitrophenly) amine, in-situ imaging of AnAcs using MALDI-MSI has been achieved for the first time.
Recommended Citation
Wessel, Bryan Edward 1989-, "Analysis of anacardic acid on the surface of Pelargonium × hortorum using matrix assisted laser desorptoin ionization mass spectrometry imaging." (2015). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 2146.
https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/2146
