Acquisition to Boost Interest in Life Sciences Applications for Mass Spectroscopy

The acquisition of a company specializing in the use of mass spectrometry for biomarker research and diagnostics by one of the world’s largest manufacturers of scientific instruments is expected to boost interest in the use of mass spectrometry for life sciences applications.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (Milford, MA, USA) recently announced that it had acquired Intrinsic Bioprobes Inc. (Tempe, AZ, USA), a manufacturer of unique sample-preparation tools used in quantitative mass spectrometry.

Included in the Intrinsic Bioprobes portfolio is the patented Mass Spectrometric Immunoassay (MSIA) technology. MSIA is a novel approach used for the rapid and accurate analysis of proteins residing in complex biological matrices. The method is based on MSIA-tips, which are antibody-coated affinity pipettes that increase protein detection, eliminate extensive sample preparation, and are fitted for robotic workstations for sensitive, high-throughput, parallel sample analysis.

During the MSIA process, proteins of interest are selectively retrieved with minimal nonspecific binding. Analytical uses range from the confirmation of an amino acid sequence of a targeted protein to the detection of point mutations and posttranslational modifications. Ambiguities in analyses are eliminated because targeted proteins are detected directly at exact and characteristic molecular masses. Downstream applications include protein quantitation, multianalyte assays, and the investigation of protein binding partners.

“The Intrinsic Bioprobes portfolio will enhance Thermo Fisher’s position in the rapidly emerging field of clinical proteomics,” said Chuck Kummeth, president of laboratory consumables at Thermo Fisher. “It is a simple, yet powerful approach to uncovering the proteomic basis of disease, and it better positions us to support our customers in their efforts to realize the promise of personalized medicine.”

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Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
Intrinsic Bioprobes Inc.