Smarter Blood Tests Deliver Faster Diagnoses and Improved Outcomes

It has long been established that the earlier a disease is detected, the better the chances for a positive patient outcome. A novel method now offers an in-depth analysis of proteins in plasma, uncovering biomarkers that can help researchers and eventually clinicians identify diseases at an earlier stage.

This pioneering methodology for deep analysis of proteins in plasma was developed by a multidisciplinary team of researchers from Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI, USA), in collaboration with other experts. The new approach minimizes the interference from common blood proteins, making it possible to detect lesser-known, low-abundance proteins that are often key in diagnosing diseases. By introducing small molecules into the blood sample, these important proteins are exposed on the surface of nanoparticles, enhancing their visibility for analysis through mass spectrometry—a technique that separates and examines ionized particles using electric and magnetic fields.

Image: Small molecule modulation of protein corona significantly enhances deep plasma proteome profiling (Photo courtesy of Mahmoudi Group)

This breakthrough testing method, published in Nature Communications, contributes to the advancement of precision medicine. Unlike the traditional "one-size-fits-all" treatment approach, precision medicine customizes healthcare for an individual's genetics, environment, and lifestyle, offering more targeted and effective solutions. This approach has shown particular promise in fields like cancer research, where tumor genetic profiling can result in improved outcomes and reduced side effects.

“Our innovative approach significantly reduces the masking effects of highly abundant plasma proteins, which often hinder the detection of critical biomarkers in human plasma,” said Morteza Mahmoudi, associate professor in the Department of Radiology and Precision Health Program in the MSU College of Human Medicine. “By minimizing these interactions, we can increase the visibility and identification of low-abundance proteins, making it easier to detect important biomarkers that would otherwise remain hidden. This enhancement leads to improved diagnostic capabilities, allowing for more precise and earlier detection of diseases.”