The journey toward clinical adoption of MALDI ‐MS based imaging proteomics: from current challenges to future expectations

In recent years, there is increasing evidence to suggest that matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) technology could offer support in clinical decision-making processes.Here, we discuss some of the recent technical developments associated underpinning this progress and outline some of the more promising clinical proteomics applications which have been developed with a clear goal towards implementation in mind. Among the spatial omics techniques available, mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) represents one of the most promising owing to its capability to map the distribution of hundreds of peptides and proteins, as well as other classes of biomolecules, within a complex sample background in a multiplexed and relatively high-throughput manner. In particular, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation (MALDI-MSI) has come to the fore and established itself as the most widely used technique in clinical research. However, the march of this technique towards clinical utility has been hindered by issues related to method reproducibility, appropriate biocomputational tools, and data storage.Notwithstanding these challenges, significant progress has been achieved in recent years regarding multiple facets of the technology and have rendered it more suitable for a possible clinical role. As such, there is now more robust and extensive evidence to suggest that the technology has the potential to support clinical decision-making processes under app...

Source: FEBS Letters - December 23, 2023 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Isabella Piga, Fulvio Magni, Andrew Smith Tags: Review Source Type: research