Large molecule analysis by LC-MS

Large molecules
A detailed shot of protein structures rendered in 3D, highlighting their complexity and function

Welcome to the Bioanalysis Zone Spotlight on Large molecule analysis by LC-MS!

In recent years there has been an increase in large-molecule therapeutics due to their target specificity, lower toxicity and higher potency, with many pharmaceutical companies now offering a vast portfolio of large-molecule drugs.

This increase in large-molecule therapeutics has been accompanied by an increase in the use of LC–MS. Even though LBA’s are still the gold standard for large-molecule quantification, LC–MS has many benefits, such as a broader linear dynamic range allowing for multiplexing. However, there are still a range of challenges associated with the use of LC–MS for these compounds.

During this Spotlight we will look at various examples of LC–MS assays for the bioanalysis of large molecules. We will also discuss the benefits and current drawbacks of the techniques.