Direct Analysis using Paper-Spray Mass Spectrometry: Method Development for the Rapid Screening of Drugs of Abuse for Forensic Toxicology

摘要

We have shown an easy to use technique (no sample preparation, no chromatography) that shows extraordinary potential for screening drugs of abuse in forensic toxicology. The paper sample cassette allows for direct sample deposition, safe sample handling and storage after drying. Once dry, the sample is stable for convenient shipping. Quantitation of drug out of dry blood spot sample is demonstrated with full MS experiment in the Exactive Plus mass spectrometer. Analyte normalized by labeled internal standard. High resolution and accurate mass are crucial techniques for analyzing complex samples by MS and nicely complement the paper spray technique in the screening of drugs from dried blood spots. Data collected in this screening application allows for retrospective analysis. Accurate mass fragments from an 'All Ion Fragmentation' experiment (acquired in the same method as full MS) and isotopic pattern matching are required to confirm drugs identified by accurate mass. As the electrospray signal from paper spray lasts 30 seconds and longer, MS and AIF experiments can both be collected at ultrahigh resolution (140k resolving power). The paper spray technique coupled with automated data processing using TraceFinder 3.0 software provides a complete solution for drug screening in forensic toxicology.