Point-of-Care Diagnostics Using Ambient Mass Spectrometry

An emerging focus of our research is the development of rapid, point-of-care diagnostic platforms using ambient mass spectrometry, particularly paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PSI-MS). This technique enables direct analysis of complex biological samples—such as blood, serum, urine, or tissue extracts—with minimal sample preparation, delivering molecular information within minutes. Paper spray ionization operates by applying a small volume of sample to a paper substrate, followed by solvent addition and the application of high voltage to generate ions directly for mass spectrometric analysis. The simplicity, speed, and low cost of this approach make it highly attractive for decentralized clinical testing, bedside diagnostics, and resource-limited settings. In our laboratory, we integrate PSI-MS with advanced machine learning algorithms to interpret complex lipidomic and metabolomic fingerprints. By extracting diagnostic molecular patterns from high-dimensional data, we aim to develop intelligent, data-driven diagnostic tools capable of rapid disease screening, biomarker-based classification, therapeutic monitoring, and assessment of personal information. Our vision is to transform mass spectrometry from a centralized laboratory technique into a portable, decision-support system that empowers clinicians with real-time molecular insights, accelerating precision medicine at the point of care.