Development of total consumption systems for inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in single particle and single cell modes

Metal nanoparticles are increasingly used in cosmetics, food packaging, textiles, toothpaste, and other ubiquitous products. Yet, their impact on our environment, food, and health is largely unknown because measuring nanoparticles in environmental and biological systems is very difficult. Similarly, measuring the uptake of metal-containing drugs by cells to develop smart therapeutics targeting tumors is also difficult because it requires analysis of numerous individual cells to assess the selectivity of the drug uptake by diseased cells versus healthy cells. This partnership aims to develop sample introduction systems (one for nanoparticles, one for cells) allowing the quick analysis of every nanoparticle or cell in each sample, which is not currently possible, to provide a complete picture. The intention is to patent the resulting systems and allow Burgener Research, a Canadian manufacturer of sample introduction systems, to sell them. Canada would then become a world leader in the measurement of nanoparticles and cells.

Faculty Supervisor:

Diane Beauchemin

Student:

Partner:

Burgener Research Inc.

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Queen's University

Program: