Application of Multiple Reaction Monitoring

Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) is a highly sensitive mass spectrometry technique widely used in proteomics, metabolomics, and clinical diagnostics. Its core principle lies in the selection of specific parent and product ion pairs for quantitative analysis of target molecules, allowing MRM to accurately detect low-abundance biomarkers in complex samples.

 

Application Scope

1. Clinical Diagnostics

MRM plays a crucial role in clinical diagnostics, especially in monitoring biomarkers and disease-related proteins. For example, in cancer early screening, specific tumor markers can be monitored to effectively increase early diagnosis rates. Additionally, MRM is used to monitor insulin levels in diabetic patients, aiding physicians in evaluating treatment efficacy and adjusting treatment plans.

 

2. Drug Metabolism Research

In drug development, MRM is employed to assess the metabolic processes of drugs and their concentration changes within the body. This is vital for dosage adjustment and safety evaluation. By monitoring drugs and their metabolites, researchers can gain insights into the pharmacological effects and potential toxicity of the medications.

 

3. Proteomics Research

In proteomics research, multiple reaction monitoring is extensively used for quantitative analysis of specific proteins' expression levels. By comparing protein profiles in different biological samples (such as tissues, serum, or cells), researchers can uncover protein alterations associated with disease development, providing critical clues for disease mechanisms.

 

4. Metabolomics

The application of MRM in metabolomics is increasing, particularly in the quantitative analysis of metabolites. By monitoring key metabolites, researchers can reveal changes in cellular metabolic pathways, playing an essential role in disease models and biomarker discovery.

 

5. Environmental Monitoring

MRM is also applied in environmental monitoring, effectively detecting pollutants in water and soil. For instance, MRM can monitor concentrations of heavy metals and organic pollutants, thereby assessing environmental pollution risks and their impacts on ecosystems.

 

6. Food Safety

In the realm of food safety, MRM is used to detect harmful substances in food, such as pesticide residues and food additives. By accurately measuring the concentrations of these substances, food safety and compliance can be ensured, protecting consumer health.

 

Multiple Reaction Monitoring has a broad application scope across various fields. With ongoing technological advancements, MRM will provide increasingly precise analytical tools for biomedical research, clinical diagnostics, drug development, and environmental protection.