Method and devices are provided for assessing tissue samples from a plurality of tissue sites in a subject using molecular analysis. In certain aspects, devices of the embodiments allow for the collection of liquid tissue samples and delivery of the samples for mass spectrometry analysis.

MS-based methods and systems are provided herein in which a desorption solvent desorbs one or more analyte species from an SPME device within a sampling interface that is fluidly coupled to an ion source for subsequent mass spectrometric analysis. In accordance with various aspects of the applicants teachings, the sampling interface includes an internal sampling conduit that provides increased interaction between the desorption solvent and the sampling substrate, thereby improving mass transfer (e.g., increased extraction or desorption speed).

Disclosed is a method for simultaneous determination of particle size distribution, concentrations of nanoparticulate mercury (Hg-NPs) in natural soils. The method uses sodium pyrophosphate as the extractant, and allows quick extraction of Hg-NPs in the soil without dissolution or aggregation. In combination with spICP-MS determination, the method makes it possible to simultaneously determine the particle size distribution and concentration of Hg-NPs in the complex soil matrix, with accurate determination results.

A sample capture assembly and method of operating is provided. The assembly includes a sampler device configured to retrieve a sample from a surface. A first bellows having a first inlet is fluidly coupled to the sample device, the bellows being selectively movable between a compressed and an extended position. A gate valve having a second inlet is coupled to an end of the first bellows opposite the first inlet. A sample container is fluidly coupled to the gate valve.

The invention generally relates to systems and methods for sample analysis using swabs. In certain aspects, the invention provides systems that include a probe having a conductive proximal portion coupled to a porous material at a distal portion of the probe that is configured to retain a portion of a sample that has contacted the porous material, and a mass spectrometer having an inlet. The system is configured such that the porous material at a distal portion of the probe is aligned over the inlet of the mass spectrometer.

Method and devices are provided for assessing tissue samples from a plurality of tissue sites in a subject using molecular analysis. In certain aspects, devices of the embodiments allow for minimally invasive collection of liquid tissue samples and delivery of the samples for mass spectrometry analysis.

An inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) system includes an ion trap, in which ions are trapped and subsequent ejected by mass-selective ejection (MSE). The system may have a linear quadrupole configuration, in which the ion trap is a linear ion trap (LIT) that is preceded by a pre-LIT linear quadrupole device and/or a post-LIT quadrupole device. The pre-LIT and/or post-LIT quadrupole device may be configured or operated as an RF-only ion guide or as a mass filter or mass analyzer, with or without mass scanning. The system may be utilized in particular for multi-element analysis of fast transient signals produced from ion pulses, where the sample under analysis is a single particle, single biological cell, or a cloud or aerosol produced for example by single-shot laser ablation.

On field ionization under ambient conditions is described and applied on both ionization and desorption of various chemicals and biochemical present on the surface of materials in solid, liquid or gas states. The Atmospheric Pressure Megavolt Electrostatic Field Ionization Desorption (APME-FID) method generates ions directly from the surface of samples connected to a high electrical voltage at megavolt conditions. Megavolt electrostatic potential is generated and gradually accumulated directly on the sample surface by a Van de Graaff generator without causing damage to the sample. Therefore, when coupled with mass spectrometric system, the APME-FID-MS method enables direct detection of analytes on the surface of samples in different sizes and diverse types.

A method of analysis using mass spectrometry and/or ion mobility spectrometry is disclosed comprising: (a) using a first device to generate smoke, aerosol or vapour from a target in vitro or ex vivo cell population; (b) mass analysing and/or ion mobility analysing said smoke, aerosol or vapour, or ions derived therefrom, in order to obtain spectrometric data; and (c) analysing said spectrometric data in order to identify and/or characterise said target cell population or one or more cells and/or compounds present in said target cell population.

A method and apparatus for monitoring and/or controlling the extent of denaturation and/or bond cleavages of proteins on any surface (e.g., biological tissues, biofilms, etc.). In one embodiment, a low power laser (e.g., a 5 mW, 362 nm diode laser) is directed through a biological sample to a photodetector. The sample is heated by a set of radiant heaters to between about 220° C. and about 250° C. in a time period of between 10 seconds to 60 seconds. The baseline transmissivity of the sample is monitored continuously throughout treatment of the biological sample via continuous monitoring of the signal voltage detected at the photodetector. Upon detection of increase in relative transmissivity in the biological sample, the heating treatment is concluded and the biological sample is removed for in situ protein identification as part of an imaging MALDI-MS measurement.