An extensive summary is provided on the methods and methodology available to analyze and image total metals in biological systems as well as to assess their speciation, in particular in metalloproteomes and as free metal ion concentrations. Discussion focuses on instrumental methods for analysis and separation and how they are complemented by genetic and bioinformatics approaches. The treatment of methods follows increased complexity and experimental challenges: from lysates and fluids, to cells and tissues, to living cells and animals, and finally to the prospects of applying extant technology to investigations in humans. Presently, method sensitivity is not sufficient for analysis of metals in the pathogen in vivo. Future analytical needs are presented to address metal ions in host–pathogen interactions for diagnosis and treatment of infectious disease. The material is presented in the context of both redistribution of metals in the host and known mechanisms of warfare to acquire the transition metal ions that are essential for growth and survival of either host or pathogen.
© 2015 Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies.