PhD defence Christel Kuik

Keywords: Orthopaedics, Implant related infections, Bacterial biofilm, Mass spectrometry

"Analytical Mass Spectrometry-Based Approaches for Biofilm-Associated Infections and Orthopaedic applications, the Committee of Deans has received"

This thesis explores the development and application of advanced mass spectrometry (MS)-based methods for orthopaedic research, with a particular focus on bacterial biofilm-associated implant infections. Using methods including MALDI mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI), ion mobility spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, and LC-MS/MS-based proteomics, the work investigates molecular changes in bacterial biofilms and orthopaedic diseases. The thesis characterises quorum-sensing metabolites and protein adaptations in clinically relevant biofilm models, revealing mechanisms involved in biofilm maturation, implant surface interactions, and bacteriophage tolerance. Beyond biofilm research, the developed MS-based approaches were applied to fracture haematoma and osteochondrosis, providing insights into molecular pathways involved in fracture healing and cartilage pathology. These studies demonstrate the value of integrating spatial and molecular omics to improve understanding of infection biology and orthopaedic disease.

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