Chapter Eight - Detecting Bacterial Resistance, Biomarkers, and Virulence Factors by MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry has become an indispensable tool for bacterial and fungal identification in clinical laboratories. Progress has been significant in the identification of resistance mechanisms by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry based on the enzymatic degradation of antimicrobial agents, more specifically, in the detection of β-lactamases, especially carbapenemases. However, this technology has some limitations and new protocols should be developed and validated for application in clinical laboratories.