Quantitative method for biomarkers of collagen degradation using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

Preclinical efficacy testing commonly involves studies that require conside rable resources and time. One valuable tool in this endeavor is the charact erization of relevant biomarkers. A method has been developed for the simul taneous determination of collagen biomarker candidates as an instrument in screening compounds for efficacy. Two potential candidates, the 3-hydroxypy ridinium crosslinks pyridinoline and deoxypyridinoline, were selected for a nalysis in collagen degradation models. Tissue or urine samples were collec ted, prepared, and quantitated for the biomarkers using spiked calibration curves and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. The development of a quick and simple assay method would allow us to increase the chances f or success in efficacy screening by eliminating compounds with poor biomark er profiles. The method proposed here appears to be more selective, conveni ent, precise (generally <10% RSD), accurate (generally <10% RE), and sensit ive relative to previously established methodology. (C) 2000 Academic Press .