Mass spectrometry platform for proteomics
MS identifies the type and amount of a substance present in an ionised sample by separation according to mass and charge. This analytical technique has enabled scientists to achieve major insights into the nature of materials and samples in a variety of fields, with significant application in the field of proteomics. However, the ultimate tool for biomarker identification via clinical proteomics has continued to remain elusive. Biomolecules tend to be fragile and fragment when ionised. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation (MALDI) is a so-called soft ionisation technique whose processes are less harsh and more suitable to biological samples. MALDI MS can measure multiple analytes directly from intact tissues, including clinical samples, without the need for target-specific reagents. The EU-funded project EUROMALDI (Ultra high performance MALDI mass spectrometer for basic research use and clinical applications) was launched to produce a pioneering proteomics platform based on the MALDI technique. The partnership joined a United Kingdom global industry leader in MALDI MS with a French university research consortium comprising six different teams from academia, a hospital, and the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM). Scientists optimised MALDI MS instrumentation designed by the United Kingdom company to enable high-resolution, high-throughput analysis of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates for clinical applications. The prototype focused on two of the most deadly carcinomas: glioblastoma (a highly invasive type of malignant brain and spinal cord tumour) and pancreatic cancer. Forensic analyses were also performed on the new proteomic solution showing that the system is highly versatile. The consortium developed cutting-edge software for tandem MS and lipidomics, including brand new software for MS-Imaging that was highly compatible for clinical use. The industry-academia partnership behind the successful EUROMALDI project will enhance the market position of the company while bringing important investments to the academic research consortium thanks to enhanced global standing. Needless to say, the ability to identify in real time in the clinic a range of protein, lipid and carbohydrate molecules associated with diseases will revolutionise diagnosis, prevention and treatment.
Keywords
Mass spectrometry, proteomics, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation, EUROMALDI, lipidomics