MRM Assay
MRM assay is a mass spectrometry-based quantitative approach characterized by high sensitivity and specificity. It operates through a tandem scanning mode in triple quadrupole mass spectrometry, where a precursor ion is selected, fragmented via collision-induced dissociation (CID) to produce a specific product ion, and subsequently analyzed through designated ion transitions for highly selective quantification. Compared to traditional full-scan mass spectrometry, MRM assay provides superior selectivity and sensitivity, enabling the precise quantification of low-abundance target molecules in complex biological matrices.
In biomedical research, MRM assay is widely utilized for the precise quantification of biomarkers, including proteins, metabolites, and nucleic acids, which serve as critical indicators of physiological and pathological states. These biomarkers play a crucial role in early disease diagnosis, personalized medicine, and drug efficacy evaluation. Traditional immunoassays (e.g., ELISA) offer high specificity but are often constrained by antibody availability and assay sensitivity. In contrast, MRM assay leverages the high resolution and selectivity of mass spectrometry, allowing for antibody-independent and highly accurate biomarker quantification.
This technique is also fundamental in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic (PK) studies. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties of a drug dictate its pharmacokinetic profile, influencing therapeutic efficacy and safety. MRM assay enables the quantification of drugs and their metabolites in plasma, urine, and tissue samples, providing essential data for pharmacokinetic modeling. For example, in targeted therapy, MRM assay facilitates the measurement of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors in patient samples, optimizing individualized treatment strategies.
A major advantage of MRM assay is its exceptional sensitivity and specificity. Conventional mass spectrometry approaches often suffer from interference by non-specific ions in complex biological samples, compromising detection accuracy. MRM assay circumvents this issue by selecting predefined precursor-product ion transitions, significantly enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio and enabling the detection of trace-level analytes. In quantitative proteomics, MRM assay combined with stable isotope labeling techniques such as SILAC, iTRAQ, or AQUA allows for precise quantification of specific proteins and post-translational modifications (PTMs).
Advancements in mass spectrometry continue to expand the applications of MRM assay. The integration of high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and machine learning-based data analysis has improved processing accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, when coupled with single-cell analytical techniques, MRM assay facilitates the study of cellular heterogeneity and molecular regulation at the single-cell level.
MtoZ Biolabs provides high-sensitivity and high-accuracy quantitative mass spectrometry services based on MRM/PRM approaches, covering the detection and quantification of proteins, metabolites, and drug molecules. Utilizing state-of-the-art mass spectrometry platforms, we offer reliable data support for biomedical research, drug development, and clinical diagnostics, aiding researchers in deciphering dynamic biological processes and advancing precision medicine.
MtoZ Biolabs, an integrated chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS) services provider.
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