Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) for the identification of highly pathogenic bacteria

The focus of this mini-review is on the current status and new advances in the application of MALDI-TOF MS for identification of highly pathogenic bacteria (HPB). Data from selected studies with HPB of the genera Bacillus, Burkholderia, Brucella, Francisella and Yersinia are reviewed and molecular assignments of HPB-specific high abundance biomarkers are presented. Furthermore, experiences from an European inter-laboratory ring trial on HPB are outlined.