Boronic acid chemistry in MALDI MS: a step forward in designing a reactive matrix with molecular recognition capabilities

A boronic analogue of the archetype matrix alpha-cyano-4-hydroxy-cinnamic acid (CHCA) has been synthesised providing a new "reactive matrix'' that possesses molecular recognition properties. This matrix selectively recognizes vic-diols, alpha-hydroxyacids, aminols and first allowed the detection of anions as fluoride (unaffordable by usual matrices).