A one‐step matrix application method for MALDI mass spectrometry imaging of bacterial colony biofilms. (23rd September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Bin; Comi, Troy J.; Si, Tong; Dunham, Sage J. B.; Sweedler, Jonathan V.
• Is Part Of: Journal of mass spectrometry. Volume 51:Number 11(2016)
• Page Start: 1030
• Page End: 1035
• Publication Date: 2016-09-23
• Subjects: airbrush -- automatic sprayer -- biofilms -- MALDI MSI -- matrix application; Mass spectrometry -- Periodicals; 543.65
• DOI: 10.1002/jms.3827
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1076-5174

Abstract

Abstract : Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging of biofilms cultured on agar plates is challenging because of problems related to matrix deposition onto agar. We describe a one‐step, spray‐based application of a 2, 5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid solution for direct matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging of hydrated Bacillus subtilis biofilms on agar. Using both an optimized airbrush and a home‐built automatic sprayer, region‐specific distributions of signaling metabolites and cannibalistic factors were visualized from B. subtilis cells cultivated on biofilm‐promoting medium. The approach provides a homogeneous, relatively dry coating on hydrated samples, improving spot to spot signal repeatability compared with sieved matrix application, and is easily adapted for imaging a range of agar‐based biofilms. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.