Picturing natural microbiomes: Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging for unravelling the architecture of environmental microbial communities

Abstract

Ecosystems are complex matrixes with a multitude of physical, chemical, and biological interactions that are continuously changing both along space and time. In the current scenario of climate warming, their physicochemical properties are quickly altered, and thus, the living beings could be heavily affected (Malhi et al., 2020). Microorganisms can be found in almost every environment in the biosphere, where they provide most of their metabolic potential. Unravelling the structure of the microbial communities is crucial to identify hotspots of vulnerability and resilience and to develop possible interventions that can decelerate or even stop undesirable changes.