Proteomics is the large scale study of proteins—their structure, function, interactions, and post translational modifications—within biological systems. As proteins are the primary drivers of biological activity and drug response, proteomics in drug discovery delivers critical insight that goes beyond genomics or transcriptomics. Among available platforms, mass spectrometry (MS)–based proteomics stands out as the gold standard for unbiased, high resolution protein analysis.
What is MS-based Proteomics
Unlike targeted ligand-based approaches that rely on predefined panels, MS-based proteomics enables deep, discovery driven coverage of thousands of proteins in a single experiment. This allows researchers to detect unexpected biology, uncover pathway level effects, and generate decision grade evidence earlier in drug discovery—supporting faster, more confident go/no go decisions for both small and large molecule programs.

Why MS-Based Proteomics Matters
- Unbiased & Deep Coverage
Quantify thousands of proteins without limitation to antibodies or panels. - PTM & Proteoform Insight
Reveal critical post translational modifications (PTMs) and structural variants essential for biologics and protein therapeutics. - Mechanistic Clarity
Link compound effects to pathways, target engagement, and potential off target liabilities. - Customizable Depth & Scale
From rapid characterization studies to comprehensive global profiling—tailored to your program’s needs. - Cross Modality Power
Seamlessly integrates with ADME, toxicology, and biotherapeutics workflows to maximize insight across discovery and development.
From samples to actionable insights, Eurofins Discovery’s MS-based proteomics transforms complex biological data into clear, confident decisions—across modalities, therapeutic areas, and stages of drug discovery.
Use Cases Addressed by MS-Based Proteomics
| Use case | Small Molecules | Large Molecules |
|---|---|---|
| Target engagement | Cell/lysate TE; dose response | Occupancy on target; catabolism evidence |
| Off targets & pathways | Chemoproteomics/global profiling | Payload/ADC off targets; pathway shifts |
| Biotransformation / Proteoforms | Metabolic liability mapping | Proteoforms/PTMs; intact mass/QC |
| Biomarkers | Discovery → targeted follow up | Clinical/lot-to-lot comparability markers |
Eurofins Discovery – MS-Based Proteomics
With over 40 years of industry leadership, Eurofins Discovery accelerates the discovery and development of innovative molecules that change patients’ lives. Supporting drug discovery research with a comprehensive portfolio of over 23,000 services and products, Eurofins Discovery optimizes and accelerates all drug discovery projects, regardless of modality or therapeutic area.
Contact us today to discuss your study design and discover how our MS-based proteomics services can help accelerate your next breakthrough.
