Precise Quantitative: Label-free Protein Analysis

Accurate quantification of proteins is vital in biomedical research. In recent years, the development of label-free protein analysis technology has provided a new option for precise quantification. Traditional protein quantification methods require the use of markers, such as fluorescent dyes or isotopic labels, but these methods have some limitations.

 

Label-free protein analysis is a protein quantification method that does not require the use of markers. It is based on mass spectrometry technology and achieves quantification by measuring the mass and abundance of proteins in a sample. Compared with traditional marker methods, label-free protein analysis has many advantages:

 

1. High Sensitivity

Label-free protein analysis technology has high sensitivity and can detect proteins at very low concentrations. This is very important for studying the function and regulation mechanisms of rare or low-expression proteins.

 

2. High Throughput

Label-free protein analysis technology can analyze multiple samples at the same time, achieving high-throughput protein quantification. This is of significant importance for large-scale proteomic studies and high-throughput screening of biological samples.

 

3. No Need for Markers

Compared with traditional marker methods, label-free protein analysis does not require the use of markers, avoiding biases and interferences introduced by the markers. This makes the results more accurate and reliable, and the original characteristics of the samples can be better retained.

 

Principles of Label-Free Protein Analysis

Label-free protein analysis technology is mainly based on mass spectrometry technology, which includes the use of mass spectrometers and data analysis methods. Its principles can be summarized into the following steps:

 

1. Sample Preparation

The protein sample is digested to obtain a peptide mixture.

 

2. Mass Spectrometry Measurement

The peptides are analyzed using a mass spectrometer to obtain a mass spectrum.

 

3. Data Processing

The mass spectrum is processed using data analysis methods, including peak identification and peak area calculation.

 

4. Quantitative Analysis

The relative abundance or absolute quantification of proteins in different samples is calculated based on the peak area.

 

Applications of Label-Free Protein Analysis

Label-free protein analysis technology has a wide range of applications in biomedical research. Below are some common application fields:

 

1. Biomarker Discovery

By comparing the abundance differences of proteins in different samples, biomarkers related to diseases can be discovered, providing a basis for early diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

 

2. Drug Development

By analyzing the effects of drugs on protein expression, the efficacy and safety of drugs can be evaluated, providing important references for drug development.

 

3. Protein Interaction Research

By analyzing the interactions between proteins, the mechanisms of cell signal transduction and regulation can be revealed, providing a theoretical basis for disease treatment and drug design.

 

4. Metabolomics Research

By analyzing the relationship between metabolites and proteins, the regulation mechanisms of metabolic pathways can be understood, providing clues for the research and treatment of metabolic diseases.

 

Label-free precise quantitative protein analysis technology is a high-throughput protein analysis method that does not require markers, with advantages of accuracy, reliability, high throughput, and high sensitivity. It is of significant importance for large-scale proteomic studies and high-throughput screening of biological samples. Through mass spectrometry technology and data analysis methods, label-free protein analysis can achieve quantitative analysis of proteins, providing a powerful tool for biomedical research. It has a wide range of applications in biomarker discovery, drug development, protein interaction research, and metabolomics research.