From the OR to the Microbiology Lab: Advanced Development of the MasSpec Pen for Broad Clinical Use

Ambient ionization mass spectrometry techniques that enable direct, gentle, and rapid analysis of samples offer exciting opportunities to provide clinicians with rich molecular data to enhance decision-making. Here, an overview of several ongoing clinical projects in the Eberlin laboratory related to the development of a handheld MS-based device, the MasSpec Pen technology, for improving patient care will be discussed. In particular, I will describe results centered around our efforts in employing the MasSpec Pen for intraoperative tissue analysis and cancer detection, identification of infectious microorganisms, and detection of drugs of abuse. Current challenges and opportunities towards incorporating this technology into clinical practice will also be addressed.