infectious diseases
Non Nucleic Acid–Based Identification Methods for Infectious Disease
Mass spectroscopy
Mass spectrometry can detect various proteins of different masses in a specimen. Specific pathogens have unique proteins, and the relative mass and abundance of each protein can sometimes be used to identify a microorganism. Mass spectroscopy is one of a number of innovative technologies that are being or have been developed for detection and identification of biological warfare and bioterrorism agents. However, this method is limited because it, unlike some nucleic acid–based methods, is not readily deployable in the field. Currently, a form of mass spectrometry called matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF) is being used to identify bacteria (including mycobacteria), yeasts, molds, and potentially viruses. The advantage of this method is that microorganisms can be identified in < 1 hour; traditional methods may require 24 to 48 hours. 