MALDI-TOF technology

BaseClear offers MALDI-TOF identification services using the VITEK® MS from bioMérieux. With this identification method for bacteria and yeast samples a spectra is obtained using MALDI-TOF technology (Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight) and analysing this spectra with the VITEK® MS database. The VITEK® MS contains a comprehensive CE marked and FDA cleared database for bacteria and yeast. The peaks from the spectra are compared to the characteristic pattern for a species, genus, or family of microorganism, thus resulting in an identification.

BACTERIAL AND YEAST IDENTIFICATION USING MALDI-TOF

It is not possible to requests this service for mould samples, only bacterial and yeast samples can be identified using the MALDI-TOF. In some cases, MALDI-TOF results do not meet our quality standards, that is with a “bad spectrum or not enough peaks”, or “no identification”. In these cases, the client will be updated with proposed alternate methods of analysis and associated costs. Delivery time of our MALDI-TOF identification service is 3 working days for the standard service or within one working day after we have received your sample(s) for our fast service!

HOW MALDI-TOF WORKS

  1. The target slide is prepared and introduced to a high-vacuum environment.
  2. A precise laser burst ionizes the sample.
  3. A “cloud” of proteins is released and accelerated by an electric charge.
  4. After passing through the ring electrode, the proteins’ Time of Flight is recorded using a formula from the time recorded.
  5. Proteins are detected with a sensor to create a spectrum that represents the protein makeup of each sample.
Read more about our microbial identification serviceRequest quotation
VITEK MS used for MALDI-TOF identification of bacteria and yeast samples
Get in touch
×

Tell us about your project

  • * Required fields
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.