Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomics for Next-Generation Precision Oncology

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Science
• Oncology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Cancer's global impact and patient heterogeneity necessitate advanced diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
• Genomics has advanced precision medicine, yet protein-level insights are crucial for understanding diverse clinical outcomes.
• Proteins are key functional molecules, serving as promising biomarkers and drug targets in cancer research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the tools, achievements, and clinical applications of mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics in oncology.
• To discuss the transition of MS-based proteomic assays from research to clinical practice.
• To highlight the potential of MS-based proteomics for improving cancer diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Overview of MS-based proteomics techniques, including discovery and targeted approaches.
• Discussion of analytical considerations, such as profiling sensitivity from bulk to single-cell and tissue to liquid biopsies.
• Examination of the regulatory landscape for MS-based protein laboratory-developed tests (LDTs).

Main Results:

• MS-based proteomics has illuminated cancer's molecular features and facilitated biomarker and therapeutic target discovery.
• The article details the progression of MS assays through discovery and validation phases.
• Current achievements and challenges in translating research assays to clinical applications are presented.

Conclusions:

• MS-based proteomics holds significant promise for enhancing precision oncology.
• Well-designed validation studies are essential to meet regulatory requirements and demonstrate clinical utility.
• The future of MS-based assays is bright, offering opportunities to revolutionize cancer care.