A recent study has demonstrated the use of microwave-induced nitrogen plasma mass spectrometry (MINP-MS) in single-event mode to analyze discrete entities such as nanoparticles and cells. Nitrogen plasma reduces the interferences observed with argon plasma and enables more reliable measurement of abundant isotopes such as 56Fe and 80Se. The results show good agreement with reference techniques (TEM and DLS), very low detection limits for iron oxide nanoparticles, and a linear response for selenium nanoparticles. In addition, biological material was analyzed at the single-cell level, with selenium mass distributions consistent with those obtained using established argon plasma-based methods.

Relevance for NanoLyme: Single-event mode measures entities one by one and supports direct detection before the organism generates antibodies. This approach aligns with NanoLyme’s strategy to develop sensitive and rapid tests based on direct signals of bacterial presence.

Operational benefits: The use of nitrogen reduces costs and improves the availability of the plasma source, factors that facilitate the adoption and deployment of the technology in clinical and research settings.

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