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Rapid detection of B acillus spore aerosol particles by direct in situ analysis using MALDI ‐ TOF mass spectrometry
Author(s) -
Jeong Y.S.,
Choi S.,
Chong E.,
Kim J.H.,
Kim S.J.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
letters in applied microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.698
H-Index - 110
eISSN - 1472-765X
pISSN - 0266-8254
DOI - 10.1111/lam.12261
Subject(s) - agency (philosophy) , library science , chemistry , computer science , sociology , social science
Accurate and rapid analytical methods are essential for the detection and identification of biological warfare agents ( BWA ). Although various studies have investigated the use of MALDI ‐ TOF MS for bacterial classification, only a few studies have examined the applicability of method for the identification of BWA s. This study aimed to generate, collect and analyse B acillus spore aerosol particles of 2–10 μ m, the optimal size of a BWA . B acillus spore aerosol particles of 2–10 μ m were rapidly analysed using direct in situ MALDI ‐ TOF MS without pretreatment processes. A mass spectrum of B acillus spore aerosol particles was successfully detected. For real‐time detection and identification, a mass spectral database of B acillus spores was constructed, and an algorithm was developed and applied. B acillus spore particles were rapidly detected and identified by MS , which can be used for the detection and inspection of BWA s. Significance and Impact of the Study Methods that permit accurate and fast detection and identification are essential in the case of pathogens such as B acillus anthracis , which can be used as biological warfare agents or bioterrorism materials. Here, direct in situ MALDI ‐ TOF MS allowed the high‐throughput detection and identification of aerosolized B acillus spore particles, and this method could be effectively applied for the detection and inspection of BWA s. In this context, we believe that this method may contribute to the realization of real‐time and on‐site identification of BWA s.