Microbial identification

In a commitment to continuous technological updating and constant attention to performance optimization, Unionchimica has acquired a MALDI-TOF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization – Time of Flight) mass spectrometer for microbial identification using the MALDI Biotyper® system technology. This technology analyzes the protein macromolecules of microorganisms, comparing the generated spectrum to a database for rapid and accurate identification of bacteria and fungi.

How it works

1. Sample preparation:

Microbial colonies are collected and mixed with a specific matrix.

2. MALDI ionization:

A laser strikes the matrix, which absorbs the energy and transfers it to the microbial sample, vaporizing the macromolecules and transforming them into ions.

3. TOF analysis:

The ions are accelerated and travel through a time-of-flight (TOF) analyzer, which measures their mass-to-charge ratio.

4. Spectrum generation:

The result is a unique spectrum, a molecular “fingerprint” of the microorganism.

5. Database comparison:

This spectrum is compared to a database of reference spectra, allowing the microbial species to be identified.

Why it’s useful

1. Speed: Offers MUCH faster identifications than traditional methods.

2. Accuracy: provides high accuracy in identification, THANKS TO THE USE OF ALWAYS UPDATED DATABASES

3. Simplicity: the system is designed for the challenges of microbiology laboratories.

Application example:

Identification of bacteria, yeasts, and molds isolated from food and environmental samples to support the traceability and origin of contamination in food production and/or aseptic packaging plants.