Multispectral histology - Characterisation of tissues at a cellular and molecular level

Key Research Objective: To develop computational and experimental methods which will be used to develop a 'cell by cell' approach to visualising and interpreting results from mass spectrometry and mass spectrometry imaging experiments.

Project Plan:

Year 1: MS and MSI of cells - optimisation of cell numbers and preparation of pellets form pure cultures. Training in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) MSI and in Rapid Evaporative Ionization Mass Spectrometry (REIMS). Training in data analysis and visualisation methods. Generate spectra from pure and mixed samples.

Year 2: Development of FACS MS source for an online FACS MS. Review of multispectral 'spectra unmixing' approaches for interpretation of data from mixed populations.

Year 3: Continued development of instrumentation and protocols.

Year 4: Data analysis, optimisation of classification approaches. Dissemination.