Membrane-based preparation for mass spectrometry imaging of cultures of bacteria.

The study of the dialogue between microorganisms at the molecular level is becoming essential to understand their relationship (antagonist, neutral, or beneficial interactions) and its impact on the organization of the microbial community. Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is a technique that reveals the spatial distribution of molecules on a sample surface that may be involved in interactions between organisms. An experimental limitation to perform MALDI MSI is a flat sample surface, which in many cases could not be achieved for bacterial colonies such as filamentous bacteria (e.