Technological Innovations Expand The Capabilities Of Mass Spectrometers

Main Category: Medical Devices / Diagnostics
Also Included In: Pharma Industry / Biotech Industry;  Public Health
Article Date: 19 Sep 2008 - 16:00 PDT

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The acceptance of mass spectrometric techniques in research institutions across Europe is being driven by their inherent advantages such as increased accuracy and higher throughput ratio. Mass spectrometry (MS) has found significant use in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, where primary applications include the characterisation of protein and other biologically active entities.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.drugdiscovery.frost.com), Opportunities for the European Mass Spectrometry Markets in Basic Research Applications, finds that the market earned revenues of USD 562 million in 2007 and estimates this to reach USD 1078.8 million in 2014.

"In the field of environmental sciences, the analytical capabilities of MS platforms are extensively used in the identification of numerous toxins and pollutants," note Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Suraj Ramanathan. "The influence of this technology has reached areas such as forensic science. Further areas of interest include polymer analysis, environmental sciences, food safety and nutrition, drug abuse and rehabilitation, defence research and space research."

Furthermore, the discovery of disease biomarkers has helped expand the capabilities of this analysis platform. The Fourier Transform Mass Spectrometry (FTMS) segment is showing maximum growth, with a higher degree of technical innovation.

Many MS manufacturers have come out with customised research programs that suit end-user requirements. This has led to numerous research and marketing agreements between MS manufacturers and companies and research organisations over a wide spectrum.

However, one of the most important challenges facing the European mass spectrometry markets is the increase in strategic consolidations within the pharmaceutical industry, which is reducing buying power. Product pricing issues, changes in funding towards clinical research, funding from the private sector and reduced manpower for operating instruments are some of the other challenges confronting market participants.

"Compensating on logistical costs, many pharmaceutical companies have started outsourcing their R&D initiatives to countries such as India and China that are comparatively high on resources and manpower," notes Ramanathan. "This reduces the need for high-tech instruments within Europe."

With end users concerned about the shortage of skilled technicians to operate MS, manufacturers need to develop training programs to enable first-time users to familiarize themselves with the platform. Manufacturers could also regularly update end users on technological advancements in the field of study with respect to MS usage. This would aid them in applying MS in their research areas, strengthening customer relationship.

Opportunities for the European Mass Spectrometry Markets in Basic Research Applications is part of the Drug Discovery & Clinical Diagnostics Growth Partnership Service programme, which also includes research in the following markets: European Molecular Diagnostics Markets, European IVD Market and European Cancer Diagnostic Market, European Primary Care Diagnostics. All research services included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends that have been evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants. Interviews with the press are available.

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