Quantitative detection of metabolites in saliva using CE-MS

Technology
In development
University

A cutting-edge CE-MS technology for the quantitative detection of metabolites in human saliva, offering high sensitivity and low-cost analysis as an alternative to HPLC-MS/MS.

Overview

Our innovative capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry (CE-MS) technology enables the quantitative detection of a wide range of metabolites in human saliva, including amino acids, organic acids, lipids, nucleotides, and vitamins. This technique utilizes both capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) modes for effective separation of polar and nonpolar metabolites. CE-MS offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional HPLC-MS/MS methods, requiring only nanoliters of saliva and costing less than $30 per sample.

Technical specifications

Core Features:

  • CE-MS Modes: Utilizes CZE and MEKC for comprehensive metabolite analysis.
  • Sensitivity and Cost: High sensitivity with a significantly lower cost per sample due to minimal reagent usage.
  • Sample Handling: Efficient with small sample volumes, using only nanoliters of saliva.
  • Versatility: Capable of detecting a broad spectrum of metabolites simultaneously, including both charged and neutral molecules.

Planned Enhancements:

  • Integration with a triple quadrupole mass analyzer for enhanced detection capabilities.
  • Optimization of conditions for the separation and detection of metabolites using various buffer systems.
  • Validation through isotopic internal standards for accuracy and precision.
Technology readiness level

The CE-MS technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment and is undergoing further optimization for broader applications.


About Georgia State University

Georgia State University is a comprehensive public research university in downtown Atlanta, serving a large and diverse student body with a rapidly growing research enterprise. An urban innovation district and co-located collaboration spaces link faculty and students with corporate partners for prototyping, user testing, and joint problem-solving. Shared core laboratories and campus computing resources support industry-sponsored work, while proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters, major hospital systems, and the CDC enables quick access to real-world testbeds. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, licensing, and startup formation to speed commercialization.

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