Identification of microorganisms using a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer - Jagiellońskie Centrum Innowacji

Identification of microorganisms using a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer

The Microbiology Laboratory of the Jagiellonian Centre of Innovation offers identification of bacteria, yeast-like fungi, filamentous fungi and dermatophytes. Analysis is carried out by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry using laser desorption/ionisation, matrix-assisted with a time-of-flight analyser using a MALDI-TOF Microflex LT mass spectrometer from Bruker.

 

Identification of the micro-organism is performed in the course of a few minutes, based on the micro-organism’s unique protein profile (ribosomal proteins), a so-called molecular ‘fingerprint’, which is a great time-saver compared to the 24-48 hours needed to identify micro-organisms by biochemical methods.

 

This is of great importance for clinical samples. In addition, the use of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry enables rapid identification of anaerobic microorganisms and those that cannot be identified by biochemical methods.

 

Our database is regularly updated and currently allows the identification of approximately 5,000 species.

 

Before ordering microbial identification, contact us to establish the test conditions and identification option.

 

 

Sample order form for testing

Before sending samples to us for analysis, please print and complete the order form and enclose it with your shipment.

 

 

 

Option I – Colony analysis (46 PLN net)

Grow colonies on any medium and send it by courier to Krakow. We will carry out a rapid identification for you using MALDI-TOF and you will receive a report with the results by e-mail.

 

  • Grow colonies. *
  • Secure the material accordingly.
  • Download the order form from the JCI website, fill it in and attach it to the parcel.
  • Notify JCI that the sample will be sent.
  • Send to JCI (to JCI Microbiology Laboratory, Building B, 14 M. Bobrzyńskiego Street, 30-348 Cracow).
  • Receive an email with the results.

 

The price for the determination of one bacterial or fungal species is PLN 46 net + 23% VAT

 

*Preparation of colonies for identification:

  • The micro-organisms supplied can be grown on any medium.
  • A single colony (obtained by surface culture) is already sufficient for testing. In the case of very fine colonies, the bacteria need to be multiplied in larger numbers.
  • The culture should be clean and its time should not exceed 48h. This is particularly important for the identification of Bacillus, as the degree of sporulation (related to the age of the culture) affects the quality of the spectrum obtained.
  • For microorganisms with slow growth (e.g. anaerobic bacteria), a culture of 48 – 96h is acceptable.
  • If older cultures are received, the laboratory can re-passage the micro-organism on request (this does not apply to anaerobic bacteria), at an additional cost.
  • Microorganisms on culture plates prepared for identification with MALDI-TOF should be stored at room temperature (samples stored at reduced temperature should be re-passaged!).

 

We would very much appreciate it if you would complete the order form carefully in order to provide the best possible service (survey).

 

 

OPTION II – analysis from a sample (individual pricing)

 

Analysis from a sample is possible ONLY after prior telephone consultation with the Laboratory Manager (tel. 12 340 21 27).

 

Prepare the material (product sample or swab protected on transport medium) to be tested and send it by courier to Krakow. We will grow the colonies, carry out a rapid identification for you using MALDI-TOF, and you will receive a report with the results by e-mail.

 

  • Prepare the material, secure the sample and prepare to send.
  • Download the order form from the JCI website, fill it in and attach it to the parcel.
  • Notify JCI that the sample will be sent.
  • Send to JCI (to JCI Microbiology Laboratory, Building B, 14 M. Bobrzyńskiego Street, 30-348 Cracow).
  • Receive an email with the results.

 

 

Discount policy*:

 

Take a look at our discount policy, which depends on the number of samples sent to us:

  • 5% discount for 100 – 199 samples per month
  • 10% discount for 200 – 299 samples per month
  • 15% discount when the number of samples exceeds 300 in a month.

 

*Discount policy does not apply to subscription services

For a quote, please contact: 

Agnieszka Serwinowska

Mobile: +48 797 611 171
E-mail: agnieszka.serwinowska@jci.pl

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