Authors: Dr. Ananya Sharma, Mr. Kunal Verma
Abstract: Mass spectrometry (MS) has emerged as a pivotal analytical tool in drug discovery and development, particularly for metabolite profiling. By providing precise molecular weight determination, structural elucidation, and quantitative analysis, MS enables comprehensive characterization of drug metabolites in biological systems. Techniques such as liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS), tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) have revolutionized pharmacokinetic studies, metabolite identification, and toxicity assessment. This paper reviews the principles, applications, and recent advancements in MS-based drug metabolite profiling. Emphasis is placed on sample preparation strategies, hyphenated techniques, and data analysis, including chemometrics and bioinformatics. Implementing MS in metabolite profiling ensures accurate identification of active and toxic metabolites, supports regulatory compliance, and accelerates drug development processes, highlighting its indispensable role in modern pharmaceutical analysis.
Keywords: Mass Spectrometry, LC-MS, MS/MS, Drug Metabolites, Pharmacokinetics, High-Resolution MS, Metabolite Profiling
Full Issue
| View or download the full issue | PDF 140-145 |