Evaluation of Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Clinical Microbiology Applications

Abstract

MALDI-TOF-MS has the ability to streamline identification of microorganisms in the microbiology lab. In this project, we focused on two main aims. First, the implementation of this technology for direct blood culture identification. Within this aim we determined the limit of detection for the protein purification method we planned on using in our laboratory, determined handling conditions for the samples, and evaluated the MALDI-TOF-MS for concordance with our current workflow and reports. Second, customization of the commercial library for Cryptococcus gattii was performed. Within this aim, we improved representation of the species in the MALDI-TOF-MS library, and also explored ways to determine the subspecies based on gathered spectra.