What is the Origin of LC-MS/MS Profiling?

The technique is a technological evolution originating from analytical chemistry and is now widely applied in clinical toxicology and endocrinology. The acronym LC-MS/MS stands for Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry, a powerful method for molecular separation and detection.

What is the Mechanism of LC-MS/MS Profiling?

First, the liquid chromatograph separates the complex mixture of hormones based on their physicochemical properties, ensuring accurate isolation. Next, the tandem mass spectrometer ionizes these separated molecules and measures their mass-to-charge ratio with high precision. The dual-stage mass analysis (MS/MS) selectively fragments the target molecules and detects specific daughter ions, which confirms the identity and concentration of each hormone, thus minimizing cross-reactivity and improving clinical accuracy.

LC-MS/MS Profiling ∞ Area

LC-MS/MS Profiling

Meaning

LC-MS/MS Profiling is a sophisticated, high-precision analytical technique utilized in clinical laboratories to accurately quantify multiple hormones and their metabolites simultaneously in a biological sample. The method involves separating compounds using Liquid Chromatography (LC) and then identifying and quantifying them using tandem Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS). This advanced profiling offers superior specificity and sensitivity compared to traditional immunoassays, making it the gold standard for comprehensive steroid and peptide hormone assessment.