Statistical characterization of multiple-reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (MRM-MS) assays for quantitative proteomics

BMC Bioinformatics. 2012;13 Suppl 16(Suppl 16):S9. doi: 10.1186/1471-2105-13-S16-S9. Epub 2012 Nov 5.

Abstract

Multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (MRM-MS) with stable isotope dilution (SID) is increasingly becoming a widely accepted assay for the quantification of proteins and peptides. These assays have shown great promise in relatively high throughput verification of candidate biomarkers. While the use of MRM-MS assays is well established in the small molecule realm, their introduction and use in proteomics is relatively recent. As such, statistical and computational methods for the analysis of MRM-MS data from proteins and peptides are still being developed. Based on our extensive experience with analyzing a wide range of SID-MRM-MS data, we set forth a methodology for analysis that encompasses significant aspects ranging from data quality assessment, assay characterization including calibration curves, limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ), and measurement of intra- and interlaboratory precision. We draw upon publicly available seminal datasets to illustrate our methods and algorithms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / chemistry
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Indicator Dilution Techniques
  • Isotopes / analysis
  • Limit of Detection
  • Mass Spectrometry / methods*
  • Mass Spectrometry / statistics & numerical data*
  • Peptides / analysis
  • Proteins / analysis*
  • Proteomics / methods*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Isotopes
  • Peptides
  • Proteins