Incubation and Growth of Life Sciences, Medical and Biotechnology Businesses in Proteomics, Genomics, Medicine, and Dentistry

Abstract : Trace level detection of chemical warfare agent simulants and biological toxins by desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) has been demonstrated. The detection of several chemical agent simulants as well as peptide and fungal toxins was shown at picogram levels from a variety of surfaces and in the presence of potential matrix interferences. In addition the detection of intact bacterial cells was also demonstrated. Smears of cells taken from cultures were analyzed yielding characteristic mass spectra for the different species studied. Ions arising from samples of Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been successfully identified as quinoline intercellular signaling molecules. Ions from other species have not yet been identified. Finally a prototype DESI wand was developed for the sampling of object not accessible by the standard mass spectrometer interface. The device extended approximately 20 cm from the mass spectrometer and was equipped with an array of both DESI spray heads and ion collection tubes enabling higher surface area scanning than is possible with a single spray head/ion collection tube combination