Highly sensitive and multiplexed mass spectrometric immunoassay techniques and clinical applications

Area of Science:

• Clinical Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Immunoassays are crucial for clinical diagnostics.
• Mass spectrometry (MS) offers powerful multiplexed detection for immunoassays.
• Mass spectrometric immunoassays (MSIAs) combine immunoassay techniques with MS detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments in mass spectrometric immunoassays (MSIAs).
• To highlight advancements in mass labels and MS techniques for clinical immunoassays.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on mass spectrometric immunoassays.
• Focus on improvements in mass label technology (elemental to small-molecule).
• Discussion of evolving MS techniques (e.g., laser-based organic MS, ambient MS).

Main Results:

• MSIAs show significantly improved sensitivity due to advanced mass labels.
• Technological and methodological advancements have expanded MS techniques for immunoassays.
• MSIAs demonstrate high potential in biomarker screening, immunohistochemistry, and single-cell analysis.

Conclusions:

• MSIAs are a rapidly evolving field with increasing clinical relevance.
• Continued innovation in mass labels and MS technology promises further improvements in diagnostic capabilities.