Mass spectrometry plays a unique and important role in lipid biochemistry, serving as a tool to elucidate lipid structure while offering a method of analysis that relies on ion chemistry, an intrinsic property of lipid substances, rather than physical properties.

In this comprehensive reference, Robert C. Murphy provides readers with an understanding of the general physical concepts of mass spectrometry and its use in the analysis of specific lipid substances. Opening the text with a description of the fundamentals of mass spectrometry, Dr. Murphy discusses currently used mass analyzers and ancillary techniques, including high-resolution mass spectrometry, selected ion recording, tandem mass spectrometry, and database generation, and details specific examples of their use. He then examines state-of-the-art desorption ionization techniques - including electron ionization, chemical ionization, fast atom bombardment, and electron capture ionization techniques - which can supply vital structural information when coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Subsequent chapters focus on the ion chemistry of specific lipids, with coverage ranging from fatty acids and their derivatives to glycosphingolipids. Dr.

Murphy presents over 80 complete mass spectra of these lipid substances and more than 120 detailed mechanistic schemes describing the fragmentation pathways observed in these mass spectra. The author also demonstrates the use of mass spectrometry for quantitative assays of the lipids discussed and the application of specific ion measurement as a strategy to enhance sensitivity and specificity

1. Mass Spectrometry of Lipids is a fundamental resource on fatty acyl-type lipids for both experienced mass spectroscopists and graduate-level students.