Abstract
MALDI TOF MS-based microbial identification significantly lowers the operational costs because of minimal requirements of substrates and reagents for extraction. Therefore, it has been widely used in varied applications such as clinical, food, military, and ecological research. However, the MALDI TOF MS method is laced with many challenges including its limitation of the reference spectrum. This review briefly introduces the background of MALDI TOF MS technology, including sample preparation and workflow. We have primarily discussed the application of MALDI TOF MS in the identification of microorganisms. Furthermore, we have discussed the current trends for bioaerosol detection using MALDI TOF MS and the limitations and challenges involved, and finally the approaches to overcome these challenges.
Highlights
IntroductionMicrobial identification methods that employ biochemical analysis, and 16S or 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequences are expensive and time-consuming [1]
Challenges in the Direct IdentificationMicrobial identification methods that employ biochemical analysis, and 16S or 18S ribosomal RNA gene sequences are expensive and time-consuming [1]
This review briefly provides a background on MALDI TOF MS technology, including sample preparation, workflow, and its application in the identification of microorganisms
Summary
Microbial identification methods that employ biochemical analysis, and 16S or 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequences are expensive and time-consuming [1]. MALDI TOF MS-based microbial identification provides the advantages of a general-purpose sample preparation platform for a plethora of organisms including bacteria, fungi, and yeast, while conventional biochemical analysis requires organism-specific procedures, reagents, and kits. These differences in sample preparation procedures impact the direct and indirect costs of consumables, rendering biochemical testing much more expensive [6]. This review briefly provides a background on MALDI TOF MS technology, including sample preparation, workflow, and its application in the identification of microorganisms.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
