Nanoparticle approach enhances detection of low-abundance proteins in plasma
PtdChos can deplete the most abundant plasma proteins in the protein corona profile. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53966-z
In a recent study published in Nature Communications, scientists from Karolinska Institutet’s Department of Microbiology, Tumors and Cell Biology, in collaboration with Michigan State University, introduced an innovative approach to improve plasma proteome profiling. Researchers have developed a new method that allows detection of low-level proteins in plasma.
Plasma is a rich source of biomarkers essential for health and disease monitoring. However, the discovery of new biomarkers has been delayed due to the difficulty of detecting low-abundance proteins.
Large proteins such as albumin dominate the mass spectrum, making it difficult to identify potential biomarkers that are present in small amounts. Existing methods to remove these highly concentrated proteins are often expensive and labor intensive, which limits their use in large-scale studies.
In recent studies, scientists have introduced an innovative approach to improve plasma proteome profiling. This method utilizes the naturally occurring small molecule phosphatidylcholine to remove highly concentrated proteins such as albumin, serotransferrin, and haptoglobin from plasma samples. By combining phosphatidylcholine with a single nanoparticle, the researchers were able to quantify approximately 1,450 proteins in a single plasma sample.
“Our patented technology combining phosphatidylcholine with a single nanoparticle significantly increases the depth of plasma proteome profiling. It opens the door,” said Amir Ata Saei, one of the lead authors. Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet.
Early detection of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases is essential for effective prevention and treatment. A new method developed by researchers could lead to major advances in identifying biomarkers for these conditions.
“This capability will allow us to study low-abundance proteins for the discovery of novel biomarkers for various diseases, especially different types of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases,” said Saei Ata. .
Further information: Ali Akbar Ashkarran et al, Small molecule regulation of protein corona for deep plasma proteome profiling, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53966-z
Provided by Karolinska Institute
Citation: Nanoparticle approach enhances detection of low-abundance proteins in plasma (November 8, 2024) https://phys.org/news/2024-11-nanoparticle-approach-abundance-proteins-blood. Retrieved November 9, 2024 from html
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