Direct Impact Spark Ionization (DISI) Mass Spectrometry (MS) for Identification of Microbes

Generating reproducible mass spectra from bacterial samples in a timely fashion at atmospheric pressure remained problematic for many years. FDA/NCTR inventors designed a rapid mass spectrometry device using direct impact spark ionization source for microbial analytes identification via spectral pattern recognition. The device design includes a rapid mass spectrometer suitable for analyzing microbiological samples that was earlier used to analyze low volatile organic compounds. The device employs a solid needle for electrode discharge. It includes a gear plate that introduces stainless steel pins carrying bacterial samples. The pins also act as counter electrodes and are targeted by controlled arcs. The small custom-made glass cylinder that is meant to shut out oxygen and prevent the introduction of ambient moisture into the analyte is unique from other DISI device. The examination revealed enormous peak intensity and spectral information with normal ionization mode on the same instrument. This device can be employed in fields such as pathogen determination in clinical settings, QA/QC (of drugs, food or cosmetic ingredients), continuous monitoring of (airborne) Biological Warfare Agents and the like.

CRADA Opportunity: The NCTR/FDA inventors are seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate or commercialize this device. For collaboration opportunities, please contact Alice Y. Welch, Ph.D. at Alice.Welch@fda.hhs.gov.

Source: http://www.ott.nih.gov/Technologies/abstractDetails.aspx?RefNo=2387

Jennifer Gimenez Jennifer Love Hewitt Jennifer Morrison Jennifer ODell Jennifer Scholle