A fluorescent dye, 2,3-dicyanohydroquinone (DCH), was optimizedfor use as a new matrix for positive-ion MALDI-MS imaging, and itprovided enhanced lipid detection and imaging in biological tissues.The properties of DCH, include a strong ultraviolet absorption, lowvolatility in a high-vacuum (B107 mbar) source, super chemicalstability, lm-sized matrix crystals, uniform matrix deposition, andhigh ionization efficiency for the detection of lipid