Whole cell matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for identification of < i > Leptospira < /i > spp. in Thailand and Lao PDR

This study used matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) as rapid and accurate tool for the identification of leptospires. The whole cell protein spectra of 116Leptospira isolates including 15 referencesLeptospira spp. (pathogenic, n = 8; intermediate, n = 2; non-pathogenic, n = 5) and 101Leptospira spp. clinical isolates was created as an in-house MALDI-TOF MS database. Ninety-seven clinical isolates from Thailand and Laos was validated with these protein spectra and revealed 98.9% correct identification when compared with 16S rRNA gene sequences method. Moreover, MALDI-TOF MS could identify spiked leptospires whole cell in urine. Biomarkers for differentiation of leptospires phylogeny and specific protein spectra for most foundLeptospira spp. in this area (L.interrogans,L.kirschneri,L.borgpetersenii) based on MALDI-MS algorithm were demonstrated.
Source: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases - Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: Source Type: research