What are other applications of mass spectrometry in the field of oncology ?

The following are other applications of mass spectrometry in the field of oncology:

1.Tumor diagnosis and classification: Through mass spectrometry, differences in protein expression between tumor cells and normal cells can be detected, enabling the identification of tumor markers for diagnosis and classification of tumors. These markers can be proteins that are specifically expressed in the blood of patients with tumors, or tumor-specific proteins or glycoproteins on the surface of tumor cells, which help doctors determine the type and stage of the tumor.

2.Identification of potential therapeutic targets: Mass spectrometry can be used to study the proteome of tumor cells, enabling the identification of potential therapeutic targets. These targets can be specific proteins involved in the development and progression of tumors, as well as proteins involved in key processes such as tumor cell metabolism and signal transduction. By studying these proteins, targeted therapeutic interventions such as drugs can be developed.

3.Monitoring treatment response and predicting recurrence risk: Mass spectrometry can be used to monitor the treatment response of tumors. For example, quantitative analysis of the production level of specific proteins in the blood can predict the efficacy of chemotherapy and assess the applicability of treatment regimens. Additionally, some specific proteins may show changes prior to tumor recurrence, so monitoring their expression levels can help doctors predict the risk of tumor recurrence.

4.Exploring tumor immune escape mechanisms: Mass spectrometry can be used to study the interactions between tumor cells and immune cells, enabling the exploration of tumor immune escape mechanisms. By analyzing the expression of tumor cell surface antigens, immune cell surface receptors, and their interactions, it is possible to gain insights into how tumors avoid recognition and attack by the immune system.