Identification of mosquitoes by MALDI-TOF MS analysis

Описание: Preparation of target plate and insect identification with MALDI-TOF MS.
Mosquitoes and biting midges are very diverse but only certain defined species are potential vectors for the transmission of viruses and parasites. Their accurate identification based on phenotypic characteristics requires a fully conserved specimen and an advanced expertise in entomology. The phenotypic identification of eggs and larvae is even more difficult. For this reason, the identification based on MALDI-TOF MS is the method of choice. Mabritec now offers this innovative service.
At present, identification can be performed for eggs, adults and partially with larvae. We homogenize the biological sample with a solvent (usually formic acid) or crush it directly on the target plate. Then, we add the matrix which embeds the sample molecules (analytes). After full crystallization, we place the plate in the sample chamber of the mass spectrometer and start the high vacuum. The analysis and comparison of the results with those of the database occurs automatically. On the screens we can clearly view the location of the laser shots on the running sample (camera), the peaks that are detected and the result of the identification, which is visible a few seconds later.
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