A Linear Ion Trap for Biological Agent Detection and Identification

摘要

A novel linear ion trap (LIT) system for protein bio-marker identification that provides significant improvement in sensitivity and dynamic range over current mass spectrometry approaches is being developed. The improvements arise from 1-2 orders of magnitude improvement in ion collection efficiency and 1-2 orders of magnitude improvement in ion storage capacity. These improvements will translate directly into improved sensitivity and dynamic range. The end goal is an instrument capable of identifying low femtomole levels of bio-agent protein markers present in complex mixtures. A unique aspect of the proposed instrument will be the potential for detection and identification of a priori unknowns. This approach is not restricted to searching for targeted agents and can be used to identify unanticipated threats. This effort leverages previous work with three-dimensional ion trap mass spectrometry that has recently been demonstrated to provide the capability for concentration, purification, and identification of protein biomarkers within the ion trap. This effort will take advantage of significant potential improvements in overall performance. This paper will discuss the historical work with three-dimensional ion traps and show preliminary results from the linear ion trap.