Thyroid hormone analysis by mass spectrometry

Abstract

Methods, systems and kits for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of one or more hormones by mass spectrometry are disclosed. The methods require minimal sample size and minimal preparation time. The methods include ionizing the hormones and analyzing the hormones by mass spectrometry. In addition, methods, systems and kits for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of thyroid hormones are disclosed including ionization of the thyroid hormones in the negative mode using an electrospray source.

Description

CONTINUING DATA[0001]This is an application that is a Reissue of U.S. application Ser. No. 10 / 823,690 filed Apr. 14, 2004 which is now U.S. Pat. No. 7,618,827, which claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 462,745, filed Apr. 14, 2003, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention combines the fields of hormone analysis and mass spectrometry. In particular the invention relates to analyzing thyroid hormones using mass spectrometry.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Hormones are biological messengers. They are synthesized by specific tissues (glands) and are secreted into the blood. The blood carries them to target cells where they act to alter the activities of the target cells.[0004]Hormones are chemically diverse, and are generally categorized into three main groups: (1) small molecules derived from amino acids, for example thyroxine, (2) polypeptides or proteins, for example insulin and thyro...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0028]The invention provides a fast and accurate method of hormone analysis and quantification using a mass spectrometer.

[0038](7) The invention permits the analysis of hormones In a sample of saliva or urine which permits simple sample acquisition and the remote submission of samples to a clinic for analysis. In previous other clinical methods, samples are taken by invasive means directly from the patient in a clinic.

[0041]Accordingly, there is provided a use for a mass spectrometer for simultaneously or sequentially analyzing a sample for a plurality of hormones in a fast, simple and accurate way. The sample may be, for example, serum, plasma, urine or saliva.

[0042]There is also provided a system for the fast, simple and accurate analysis of a plurality of hormones comprising: reagents for the preparation of the sample, reagents to perform the analysis on a mass spectrometer, and a mass spectrometer to perform the analysis.

Problems solved by technology

In addition, the limit of detection can be fairly low.

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