Short Communication: Trifluorothymidine localization in the rabbit cornea by secondary ion mass spectrometry imaging microanalysis

Abstract

Imaging microanalysis by secondary ion mass spectrometry is a sensitive surface analytical technique that allows the detection and localization of elements and compounds in biological tissues. We report the detection by this approach of intracorneal trifluorothymidine following topical administration in rabbit with normal cornea. The presence of trifluorothymidine is revealed using 19F as a marker, allowing the acquisition of ultrastructural microanalytical images without using radioactive tracers.