Microbial identification via MS / MALDI-ToF
VITEK® MS is an automated microbial identification system that uses Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF), an innovative mass spectrometry technology, to provide identification results in minutes.
Principle of test
The MS principle involves ionising chemical compounds to generate charged molecules and measuring their mass-to-charge ratio. These ‘molecular signatures’ can be used for rapid bacterial identification from isolated colonies.
MALDI-TOF technology used by VITEK® MS examines the patterns of proteins detected directly from intact bacteria. The sample to be analysed is mixed with another compound called a matrix, which is then applied to a metal plate and irradiated with a laser. The matrix absorbs the laser light and is vapourised, along with the sample, gaining an electrical charge in the process. 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, ultimately measuring the quantity of each ion. Detection is achieved at the end of the flight tube.
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