Technology background
The extended time in microbial identification is a threat for the treatment of a large number of infections caused by bacteria. Empirical treatment and often erroneous infections caused by microorganisms, largely result in prolonged course of disease and an increased risk of death to the patient. For the most accurate bacterial identification it is necessary to use more accurate techniques. One of the most modern technology that has been used in microbiology laboratories and revolutionizing the way microbial identification using mass spectrometry, It is called MALDI TOF MS. This success is mainly associated with simplicity, the speed in the identification of microorganisms, the exact taxonomic classification and the low cost of reagents.
The materials for bacterial identification in MALDI TOF MS system with very low costs, however, a high initial investment for the equipment is needed. Most Brazilian firms do not have this equipment under the clinical isolates transport of smaller laboratories for larger laboratories have been a routine in Brazil. Biosecurity aspects should always be considered when there is transport of microorganisms, either by regular mail or by the "courier" companies, as a matter of fact, the development of methodologies involving the reduction or elimination of this biological risk is necessary to make it possible for smaller institutions have access to the benefits of the MALDI TOF MS technology.
Technology description
Innovative way to carry inactivated bacteria, on filter paper, for analysis and identification by MALDI TOF MS, resulting in decreased biological risk inherent to bacterial transport.
Problem Fixed
This solution provides a way of transporting, without biohazard, bacterial biomass of small laboratories that do not have access to MALDI TOF MS technology, for reference laboratories.
Advantages
– Ease of bacterial transport;
– Lower Costs;
– high stability;
– Quality.
Applications
Sector of clinical microbiology.
Nível de Maturidade da Tecnologia (TRL – Technology Readiness Level)
Status of the technology
Patent filled by INPI.
Inventors
Afonso Luis Barth
Maiara Santos Carneiro
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