A novel method for multiplex protein biomarker analysis of human serum using quantitative MALDI mass spectrometry

In this work, we have extended our previously proposed approach for determining protein concentrations in human serum (using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry) to include simultaneous analysis of several proteins associated with acute inflammation (alpha-2-macroglobulin, fetuin-A, serum amyloid A1). This technique can be used to diagnose systemic inflammation and provides results in 4-5 h. The developed approach was verified using standard immunological methods (ELISA). Samples from 87 individuals, in specific groups, were used for testing and validation: control; inflammatory soft tissue disease accompanied by sepsis; influenza A infection; or COVID-19. The feasibility of differentiating patient groups with the aforementioned conditions was analyzed using a combination of the inflammatory markers described. For fetuin-A and serum amyloid A1, diagnostically significant concentration ranges were established. (c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

In this study, a previously proposed method for determining protein concentrations in human serum using mass spectrometry was extended to include the analysis of proteins associated with acute inflammation. The technique can be used for diagnosing systemic inflammation and provides results within 4-5 hours. The developed approach was validated using standard immunological methods and differentiating patient groups with specific conditions was analyzed.