Table 1.

Comparison of In Situ Analysis Techniques (MALDI, DESI, and LAESI) to Droplet Probe. Adapted from Sica et al.³⁹

Applications	MALDI	DESI	LAESI	Droplet Probe
Direct Culture Analysis	✔	✔	✔	✔
Sample Prep Required	Matrix	Minimal/Imprints	None	None
Imaging vs Heat Mapping	Imaging	Imaging	Imaging	Heat mapping
Repeat Analysis	✘	✔	✘	✔
Temporal Studies	✘	✔	✘	✔
Spatial Studies	✔	✔	✔	✔
Optimal Surface Parameters	Matrix	Firm/Flat	Water-rich	Any
Chromatography	✘	✘	✘	✔
Types of Identification
Accurate Mass	✔	✔	✔	✔
MS/MS	✔	✔	✔	✔
Additional MS Parameters	✔	✔	✔	✔
Retention Time	✘	✘	✘	✔
UV/VIS Absorbance	✘	✘	✘	✔
Additional Detectors	✘	✘	✘	✔