Nanopost array laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (NAPA-LDI MS): Gathering moss?

Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry (LDI MS), has grown in popularity solving the matrix interference problem that Matrix assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry (MALDI MS) faced. The silicon based nanostructure LDI platforms have manifested with hypes and spikes, yet have already started showing signs of premature decay or stagnation. Nanopost Array Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry (NAPA LDI), the latest generation of the LDI variants has surfaced with an ability to overcome other LDI MS limitations. But, it is still confined within not more than tens of researchers. When MALDI MS has flourished inspite of the varied limitations; the slowing down of this technique inspite of no disclosed limitation, is what prompted this review. The current loss of enthusiasm with respect to this technique and the reasons behind the obvious lack of popularity inspite of this technique's versatility are speculated. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.