MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in transfusion medicine

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a valuable tool in clinical research. In transfusion medicine, DNA-based genotyping is increasingly replacing serological methods for precise blood group determination. MALDI-TOF MS platforms for SNP genotyping have been rigorously developed and validated against serological techniques. MALDITOF MS offers high-throughput capacity, exceptional multiplexing, and direct detection, resulting in high accuracy and flexibility. The ability to perform blood group genotyping, bacterial identification via peptide barcoding, and detection of hemoglobinopathies and hemoglobin adducts in both donors and recipients makes MALDI-TOF MS a promising technology for resolving complex blood typing cases and enhancing clinical utility in transfusion medicine.