Application of Mass Spectrometry Imaging in Uro-Oncology: Discovering Potential Biomarkers

Abstract

A growing need is emerging worldwide for new molecular markers which could enhance the accuracy of diagnostic and therapeutic methods for detecting urogenital cancers. Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is a very promising tool in this regard. In this review, we attempt to provide a subjective summary of the latest publications on potential biomarkers of renal, bladder, prostate, and testicular malignancies detected with MSI through the eyes of a clinical urologist.

Matrix- and Surface-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Methods for Urological Cancer Biomarker Discovery—Metabolomics and Lipidomics Approaches

“…The general workflow of experiments aimed at analyzing potential urological cancer biomarkers using MALDI and SALDI MS is presented in Figure 2 . Admittedly, there are existing review articles that touch upon the study of metabolomics biomarkers of urological cancers [ 25 ], as well as the application of MSI techniques for analyzing tissues of these cancers [ 26 ], yet they possess certain limitations. In the case of the literature review concerning the use of metabolomics for the diagnosis of bladder cancer, this study refers to other, aforementioned analytical techniques but overlooks the application of LDI methods [ 25 ].…”

“…In the case of the literature review concerning the use of metabolomics for the diagnosis of bladder cancer, this study refers to other, aforementioned analytical techniques but overlooks the application of LDI methods [ 25 ]. In the case of a study addressing MS imaging of kidney, bladder, and prostate cancers, it presents findings not only on metabolites and lipids but also on proteins, while omitting the SALDI method [ 26 ].…”