Mass spectrometry-based plasma proteomics: state of the art and future outlook

Abstract

Mass spectrometry-based plasma proteomics is a field where intense research has been performed during the last decade. Being closely linked to biomarker discovery, the field has received a fair amount of criticism, mostly due to the low number of novel biomarkers reaching the clinic. However, plasma proteomics is under gradual development with improvements on fractionation methods, mass spectrometry instrumentation and analytical approaches. These recent developments have contributed to the revival of plasma proteomics. The goal of this review is to summarize these advances, focusing in particular on fractionation methods, both for targeted and global mass spectrometry-based plasma analysis.

Keywords: MRM; SRM; SWATH; biomarkers; fractionation; high abundance protein depletion; mass spectrometry; plasma; proteomics; quantitation; serum.