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Published on: October 13, 2020
Mass Spectrometry-Based Biomarkers in Drug Development
Michelle R Robinson1, Ronald A Miller2, Daniel S Spellman3
1Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, PA, USA.
Mass spectrometry advances protein biomarker discovery and development for pharmaceuticals. This enhances drug development efficiency by improving decision-making and understanding therapeutic impact.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Proteomics
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Significant advancements in mass spectrometry, proteomics, and bioanalytical techniques have accelerated biomarker discovery and development.
- Progress in defining guidelines for analytical validation, acceptance, and qualification of biomarkers has been made.
- Decreased pharmaceutical R&D ROI necessitates improved early decision-making tools in drug development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe biomarker classes relevant to drug development.
- To review mass spectrometry-based, protein-centric approaches for biomarker discovery.
- To discuss the development of targeted assays for precise biomarker measurement.
Main Methods:
- Review of mass spectrometry-based proteomics and bioanalytical approaches.
- Analysis of established guidelines for biomarker validation and qualification.
- Description of protein-centric strategies for biomarker discovery and assay development.
Main Results:
- Biomarker implementation enhances understanding of drug mechanisms and facilitates preclinical to clinical translation.
- Biomarkers enable early proof of concept, dose selection, and increase drug development efficiency.
- Mass spectrometry provides selective and analytically precise methods for biomarker measurement.
Conclusions:
- Mass spectrometry-based biomarker discovery and development are crucial for efficient, data-driven drug development.
- Well-defined biomarkers improve decision-making throughout the pharmaceutical R&D pipeline.
- Targeted protein assays are essential for measuring therapeutic intervention impact and pharmacodynamic effects.
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