Multiplexed Biothreat Detection with Fieldable Mass Spectrometry

The Zeteo developed BioTOF system is designed to autonomously collect air samples and rapidly identify the presence of a biological threat. This effort will augment BioTOF system to provide an enhanced capability to analyze the proteomic characteristics of a potential threat. Zeteo will develop a stand-alone “Hot Acid” module suitable for integration with either the BioTOF (baseline effort) or digitalMALDI (optional effort) that will consist of: Automated aerosol sample collection and transfer to the Hot Acid module in solvent or buffer. Reusable Hot Acid digestion cartridge that will accept a liquid sample and conduct a proteomic digest. Fluidics to transfer the digested sample to either a BioTOF sample cap (baseline effort) or to an aerosol generation module for injection into digitalMALDI (optional effort). Bioinformatic Protein Identification Software The system will be tested with representative BSL-1 materials to include all classes of biological threats (spore, vegetative cells, virus, and toxin). Samples will be manually provided to the BioTOF (baseline effort) and digitalMALDI (optional effort) systems for analysis. Testing will also include environmental interferents such as brake dust, diesel smoke, and pollen.