Tandem Mass Spectrometry for Monitoring Control & Optimization of Bioprocesses

该建议旨在使用一种相对较新且用途广泛的 分析技术（串联质谱法）分离和 识别复杂混合物中的单个组分 生物反应 拟议方法还力求利用一个 用于样品传输和选择性的毛细管膜接口 分析物的渗透。 使用三重的初步结果 四极杆仪器表明，所提出的方法具有 灵敏度允许识别痕量的 先前未怀疑的全部中间体（未过滤） 发酵液 用于监测、控制和优化生物过程的传感器 是生物技术领域的强烈需求， 提供了一种解决这一需求的方法。 这一建议也是 一个很好的例子，我们的跨学科项目的类型， 希望在工程理事会的生物技术 程序. 主要研究者被认为是良好的 有资格进行拟议的研究。

This proposal seeks to use a relatively new and highly versatile analytical technique (Tandem Mass Spectrometry) to separate and identify individual components of complex mixtures in a bioreactor. The proposed methodology also seeks to utilize a capillary membrane interface for sample transport and selective permeation of analytes. Preliminary results using a triple quadrupole instrument show that the proposed methodology has the sensitivity to allow identification of trace amounts of previously unsuspected intermediates in whole (unfiltered) fermentation broths. Sensors for monitoring, controlling and optimizing bioprocesses is a strong need of the biotechnology field and this proposal provides a means of addressing this need. This proposal is also an excellent example of the type of cross-disciplinary project we wish to see in the Engineering Directorate's Biotechnology Program. The Principal Investigators are considered to be well qualified to carry out the proposed research.