Mass Spectrometry-Based Serum Proteomics for Biomarker Discovery and Validation

Area of Science:

• Proteomics
• Biomarker Discovery
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Blood protein measurements are crucial for patient health assessment.
• There is a need for novel biomarkers with enhanced diagnostic specificity.
• Advancements in bioanalysis technology and biobanks facilitate proteomics research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a comprehensive workflow for serum/plasma proteomics.
• To detail sample preparation methods, including immunoaffinity depletion.
• To outline methodology for selected reaction monitoring mass spectrometry validation.

Main Methods:

• Serum/plasma sample preparation.
• Immunoaffinity depletion of abundant plasma proteins (optional).
• Selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mass spectrometry for validation.

Main Results:

• A validated workflow for serum/plasma proteomics was established.
• The protocol addresses challenges in analyzing low-abundance proteins.
• Methodology enables robust validation of potential biomarkers.

Conclusions:

• The presented workflow aids in the characterization of disease-related plasma biomarkers.
• This approach can improve diagnostic specificities in clinical settings.
• Further application of this protocol can advance personalized medicine.