What is Olink Proteomics?
Olink proteomics, the comprehensive study of all proteins in a cell, plays a crucial role in understanding cellular functions and the mechanisms underlying diseases. However, traditional proteomics techniques face limitations, including low throughput and sensitivity. Olink proteomics addresses these challenges by leveraging its innovative Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) technology, which has revolutionized the field of proteomics research.
The Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) is a unique, high-throughput, highly specific, and sensitive technique for targeted protein quantification. The core principle of PEA is based on using two antibodies specific to a target protein, each conjugated with a unique DNA strand. Upon binding to the target protein, these antibodies bring the DNA strands into close proximity, allowing them to complementarily bind and form a double-stranded DNA template. This template is then amplified through an enzymatic extension reaction, enabling quantitative detection of the protein. PEA builds upon the Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA), which was introduced in 2002 by the Ulf Landegren team. PLA uses DNA aptamers to bind the target protein, and complementary probes are then used to amplify the signal. Olink proteomics improves upon PLA by incorporating antibodies, which enhances both specificity and sensitivity.
Advantages of Olink’s PEA Technology
1. High Throughput
Up to 3072 proteins can be simultaneously analyzed in the same sample, making it ideal for large-scale studies.
2. High Sensitivity
It is capable of detecting proteins at fg/ml levels, making it particularly useful for identifying low-abundance proteins.
3. Minimal Sample Volume
Only 1-6 microliters of sample is required, facilitating efficient sampling and detection.
4. Versatility
PEA is compatible with various biological samples, such as serum, plasma, tissue lysates, and urine, and is especially effective in detecting low-abundance proteins in bodily fluids.
Olink proteomics technology is widely applied in fields such as biomarker discovery, drug development, and clinical translation. It has been adopted by numerous pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies worldwide and has been instrumental in developing liquid biopsy biomarker panels for various diseases. These applications have accelerated the translation of research into clinical practice, improving both the sensitivity and specificity of early disease detection. Olink proteomics technology has demonstrated exceptional performance in areas like neurology, oncology, and immuno-oncology, becoming an essential tool for pharmaceutical companies and research institutions. Key applications include discovering novel disease biomarkers, developing precision diagnostic tools (e.g., liquid biopsy panels for diseases such as multiple sclerosis), screening drug targets, evaluating drug efficacy and safety, expanding drug indications, and developing companion diagnostics. Furthermore, Olink proteomics technology has enabled deeper understanding of disease mechanisms by revealing protein functions and interactions. As the technology continues to evolve, Olink proteomics is poised to play an even greater role in early disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment, contributing to the advancement of precision medicine.
The development of PEA technology has provided a powerful tool for proteomics research, facilitating biomarker discovery and clinical applications. It holds tremendous potential for the future of precision medicine, offering valuable insights into disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.
MtoZ Biolabs, an integrated chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS) services provider.
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