Postdoctoral Researcher University of Washington Seattle, Washington
Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) is a powerful analytical technique that provides two-dimensional spatial distribution of molecules on the sample surface. The ability of MSI to analyze samples by spatial mapping of molecular distributions makes it an excellent tool to analyze broad spectrum of analytes ranging from proteins, small molecules, endogenous cell metabolites, and lipids in tissue samples.
Cell-based therapies have the potential to target primary tumors and metastatic sites. Our group is investigating nano-engineered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to target solid tumors. Based on our preliminary data showing MSC homing to premetastatic lungs, we will investigate engineered MSCs to target pre-metastatic lung tumors. We are utilizing MSI to determine the drug/MSC disposition in premetastatic lung tissues.
Learning Objectives:
After attending the session, participants will perceive the significance of MSI as an analytical technique to look into tumoral distribution of small molecules, that could provide qualitative representation of targeting.
This presentation touches upon the evolution of MSI as a spatial visualization technique for tumors and elucidates the significance in identifying small molecules, metabolites, biomolecules, and tumor heterogeneity.
Upon completion of the session, attendees will deduce the promises and challenges pertinent to MSI, and how different drug delivery systems and organs/tissues selected will impact the overall output.
