Sponge Spray-Reaching New Dimensions of Direct Sampling and Analysis by MS

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Mass spectrometry (MS) analysis of clinical samples often requires extensive and costly sample preparation.
• Simplifying and accelerating this process is crucial for efficient diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel sampling and direct MS analysis approach called sponge spray.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of direct analysis from various biological matrices with minimal sample preparation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a volumetric absorptive microsampling device for precise sample collection.
• Developed an electrospray method directly from the microsampling device tip for MS analysis.
• Analyzed dried blood, plasma, and urine samples.

Main Results:

• Sponge spray enables direct MS analysis from dried blood, plasma, and urine with no prior sample preparation.
• Quantitation of penicillin G in plasma and urine was demonstrated, despite significant matrix effects.
• The method offers a simplified and faster alternative to traditional sample preparation techniques.

Conclusions:

• Sponge spray is a viable novel approach for direct mass spectrometry analysis of clinical samples.
• This technique significantly reduces sample preparation time and cost.
• Further optimization may overcome matrix effects for broader clinical applications.