Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have drawn great interest in recent decades due to their fascinating structures, unusual physical properties, versatile modification strategies, and biological compatibilities. In this review, we describe recent progress in the application of MOFs to matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI MS). Owing to their high porosities, specific affinities, and photon absorption capacities, MOFs can be used as solid adsorbents to selectively capture peptides (including endogenous peptides, phosphopeptides, and glycopeptides) and as matrices in MALDI MS. Current developments in and future prospects for this field of research are also discussed.
Keywords: Laser desorption/ionization; Mass spectrometry; Matrix; Metal–organic frameworks; Peptides.