Microbial Identification via MS / MALDI-ToF

OVERVIEW:

The Bruker MALDI Biotyper®sirius system identifies microorganisms using MALDI-TOF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization - Time of Flight) Mass Spectrometry to determine the unique molecular fingerprint of an organism. The characteristic spectrum pattern of this fingerprint is used to reliably and accurately identify a particular microorganism by matching against thousands of reference spectra from microorganism strains.
 

PRINCIPLE OF TEST:

Mass spectrometry (MS) is an analytical technique for determining the elemental composition of a sample. The MS principle consists of ionizing chemical compounds to generate charged molecules and to measure their mass-to-charge ratio. Such molecular “signatures” can be used for rapid bacterial identification (ID) from isolated colonies.

By determining an organism’s unique proteomic fingerprint and matching this characteristic pattern with an extensive reference library of close to 4,700 species (version 2022 the Bruker MALDI Biotyper®sirius system can reliably identify an unknown microorganism. The reference library includes common environmental species and rare microorganisms. Continuous expansion of the library ensures that a broad range of microorganisms can be easily identified.

MALDI-TOF technology (Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight) used by the Bruker MALDI Biotyper sirius system examines the patterns of proteins detected directly from intact bacteria. The sample to be analysed is mixed with another compound, called a matrix. The mixture is applied to a metal plate and irradiated with a laser. The matrix absorbs the laser light and vaporizes, along with the sample, in the process gaining an electrical charge (ionization). Electric fields then guide the ions into the time-of-flight mass spectrometer, which separates them according to their mass to charge (m/z) ratio, and ultimately the quantity of each ion is measured. Detection is achieved at the end of the flight tube. 

SAMPLE REQUIREMENTS:

It is preferable (and faster) if isolated colony material is submitted for testing on non-selective or selective agar plates, swabs and cell extracts can be submitted directly. Otherwise, and if necessary, we will prepare the submitted sample for testing (additional fee applies). A submission form must be completed detailing the sample(s) to be examined. Any additional information that you have regarding identification, will help us to minimize turnaround time e.g. growth conditions, anaerobic/aerobic etc.

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