Recent developments in DNA adduct analysis using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• DNA adducts are early indicators of cancer development, arising from genotoxic agent exposure.
• These adducts can lead to critical gene mutations, initiating tumor formation.
• Assessing DNA adducts provides vital insights into a chemical's genotoxic potential and carcinogenic mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review challenges in qualitative and quantitative DNA adduct analysis using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).
• To highlight recent advancements in LC-MS techniques for overcoming analytical limitations.
• To summarize key steps and novel solutions in sample preparation, MS fragmentation, and method validation for DNA adductomics.

Main Methods:

• Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is the primary analytical technique discussed.
• Focus on improvements in chromatographic separation, MS specificity, sensitivity, and dynamic range.
• Review of advancements in sample preparation, MS fragmentation, and method validation.

Main Results:

• LC-MS has become the leading technique for DNA adduct analysis due to enhanced resolution, specificity, and sensitivity.
• Recent developments have addressed limitations in both qualitative and quantitative DNA adduct measurements.
• New solutions in sample preparation, MS fragmentation, and validation are emerging.

Conclusions:

• LC-MS is indispensable for analyzing DNA adducts, providing critical data for cancer research.
• Ongoing advancements are enhancing the accuracy and scope of DNA adduct analysis.
• DNA adductomics approaches are evolving, offering deeper insights into genotoxicity and carcinogenesis.