Neuroendocrine biomarkers in clinical chemistry: method development and clinical validation of automated LC-MS/MS methods

Promotie: mw. W.H.A. de Jong, 14.45 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Proefschrift: Neuroendocrine biomarkers in clinical chemistry: method development and clinical validation of automated LC-MS/MS methods

Promotor(s): prof.dr. I.P. Kema, prof.dr. E.G.E. de Vries

Faculteit: Medische Wetenschappen

Contact: via de persvoorlichters van het UMCG, tel. 050-361 2200, e-mail: voorlichting bvl.umcg.nl

Neuroendocrine biomarkers in clinical chemistry: method development and clinical validation of automated LC-MS/MS methods

The development and clinical validation of automated mass spectrometric methods for the quantification of biogenic amines in the clinical setting as markers for the diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumors is described. On-line sample preparation coupled to high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometric detection (XLC-MS/MS) is applied and enables simultaneous solid-phase extraction, concentration, separation, and sensitive and mass selective detection. Automation facilitates the handling of the growing number of samples to be analyzed.

Measurements of catecholamines and metabolites (metanephrines) are mainly applied for diagnosis of the catecholamine-producing tumor pheochromocytoma. Specific, selective and sensitive XLC-MS/MS methods for quantification of free catecholamines (urine) and free metanephrines (plasma) are described. The pre-analytical influence of diet on catecholamines and metabolites was examined. This demonstrated that dietary restrictions should be considered when the deconjugated fraction of urinary and plasma metanephrines or urinary catecholamines are measured. Plasma free metanephrines are not affected by dietary catecholamines.