Verification of a Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry Method for Diagnostic Identification of High-Consequence Bacterial Pathogens

Abstract

We examined the utility of a single matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry method for the identification of security-sensitive biological agents (risk group 3 bacterial pathogens). The goal was 2-fold: to verify a method for inclusion into our scope of accreditation, and to assess the biological safety of extractions. We developed our sample flow to include a tube-based chemical extraction, followed by filtration, before processing on MALDI-TOF MS instruments in a containment level 2 laboratory.