Clinical evaluation of advanced MALDI-TOF MS for carbapenemase subtyping in Gram-negative isolates

Dong Huey Cheon1, Heejung Jang1, Yoon Kyung Choi1

  • 1R&D Center for Clinical Mass Spectrometry, Seegene Medical Foundation, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

PubMed

Insights

Advanced matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry accurately identifies carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) and their subtypes. This method aids in combating antibiotic resistance and improving public health outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical microbiology
  • Mass spectrometry
  • Infectious disease diagnostics

Background:

  • Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) pose a significant clinical threat, particularly in healthcare settings with infection control challenges.
  • Accurate and rapid identification of CPE and their specific carbapenemase enzymes is crucial for effective treatment and infection control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate an advanced matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (A-MALDI) mass spectrometry method for identifying carbapenemases and their subtypes in clinical isolates.
  • To assess the accuracy, precision, and discriminatory power of A-MALDI for CPE detection.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 581 clinical isolates, including 469 CPE and 112 carbapenemase-negative strains.
  • Optimization of A-MALDI-TOF settings and internal mass calibration to enhance detectability and mass accuracy.
  • Detection of specific carbapenemase target proteins (KPC, NDM, OXA, GES).

Main Results:

  • A-MALDI demonstrated 100% accuracy and precision in identifying all CPE isolates.
  • The method successfully discriminated individual carbapenemase subtypes (e.g., KPC-2 vs. KPC-3/4) and co-producing strains (e.g., KPC and NDM).
  • High mass accuracy and simultaneous detection capabilities attributed to the method's success.

Conclusions:

  • A-MALDI is a valuable tool for accurate identification of CPE and carbapenemase subtypes in clinical settings.
  • This method can aid in selecting appropriate antibiotic therapies, contributing to antibiotic stewardship.
  • The A-MALDI method shows promise in preventing the spread of antibiotic resistance and enhancing public health.