A team of scientists from Spain has isolated a strain of the bacteria Streptococcus parauberis from spoiled vacuum-packed refrigerated seafood.
A team of scientists from Spain has isolated a strain of the bacteria Streptococcus parauberis from spoiled vacuum-packed refrigerated seafood.1S. parauberis causes mastitis in cows and produces streptococcosis in farmed fish, but it is not harmful to humans.
The team carried out a full characterization and found two bacterial isolates that were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Both isolates were also characterized by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI‑TOF MS). Genetic and proteomic analysis was carried out and allowed for the identification of five mass peaks in the range of 2200–6000 m/z that was specific to the species S. parauberis. These results allow for the rapid identification of other pathogenic and spoilage bacteria that can potentially be present in seafood.
The team concluded that this was the first report of S. parauberis in seafood. In addition, they deduced that MALDI-TOF MS provides a rapid method for the identification of the bacteria.
1. J. Barros-Velazquez et al., Food Microbiology, 30(1), 91–97 (2012).
This story originally appeared in The Column. Click here to view that issue.
The Next Frontier for Mass Spectrometry: Maximizing Ion Utilization
January 20th 2025In this podcast, Daniel DeBord, CTO of MOBILion Systems, describes a new high resolution mass spectrometry approach that promises to increase speed and sensitivity in omics applications. MOBILion recently introduced the PAMAF mode of operation, which stands for parallel accumulation with mobility aligned fragmentation. It substantially increases the fraction of ions used for mass spectrometry analysis by replacing the functionality of the quadrupole with high resolution ion mobility. Listen to learn more about this exciting new development.
The Complexity of Oligonucleotide Separations
January 9th 2025Peter Pellegrinelli, Applications Specialist at Advanced Materials Technology (AMT) explains the complexity of oligonucleotide separations due to the unique chemical properties of these molecules. Issues such as varying length, sequence complexity, and hydrophilic-hydrophobic characteristics make efficient separations difficult. Separation scientists are addressing these challenges by modifying mobile phase compositions, using varying ion-pairing reagents, and exploring alternative separation modes like HILIC and ion-exchange chromatography. Due to these complexities, AMT has introduced the HALO® OLIGO column, which offers high-resolution, fast separations through its innovative Fused-Core® technology and high pH stability. Alongside explaining the new column, Peter looks to the future of these separations and what is next to come.