Evaluating and Validating Protein Biomarkers in Muscular Dystrophy

Characterized by the weakness and loss of muscle mass, muscular dystrophy is a rare type of neuromuscular disease where genetic mutations interfere with the production of the proteins necessary to form healthy muscles.

Current methods for the prognosis of muscular dystrophy offer a limited view of the disease’s progression. For example, one of the tests conducted to monitor the disease is the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). However, this test relies on the patient’s motivation to perform well on the test and ability to understand and follow instructions. As a result, the test may reflect the patient’s disposition during the test rather than providing an accurate measure of the disease’s progression. In contrast, biomarkers reflect a specific biological assessment of the disease that is more objective and quantifiable.

While testing specific muscle function parameters is an effective method for determining the prognosis of disorders such as muscular dystrophy, validated biomarkers can be more meaningful when improving clinical care and research. These biomarkers not only facilitate early diagnosis and precise monitoring of disease progression but also play a critical role in evaluating new therapies, ultimately improving patient outcome.

This project evaluates the abundance of muscular dystrophy protein biomarkers in serum/plasma through antibody-based protein analysis. In this approach, antibodies specific to the target proteins cover the beads used in Suspension Bead Array (SBA) technology. These beads are then added to the serum/plasma samples, where the target proteins have been biotin-labeled. After the desired antibody-antigen complexes are formed, the detection is carried out using fluorescently labelled streptavidin. This approach also allows for the protein biomarkers to be monitored over time and assess various disease progression states.