Mass Spectrometry Market Expansion Forecast

PALO ALTO, Calif., April 13 -- Research efforts in areas of life sciences such as proteomics (protein analysis) and metabolomics (metabolite analysis) could receive a shot in the arm with the development of sophisticated mass spectrometry (MS)-based tools. These instruments, with their automated data analysis features and ability to provide highly accurate results, are likely to help life science researchers expand their research horizons, according to market analysis firm Frost & Sullivan in its report, "World Life Science Mass Spectrometry Markets."

This market generated revenues worth $880 million in 2003 and is likely to reach about $1.36 billion by 2010, Frost & Sullivan said.

"Interpretation of research done on the various fields of life sciences is currently hampered by inadequate data analysis tools," said Frost & Sullivan analyst Sinead Igoe. "As throughput increases and applications expand, so will the need for automated data analysis."

With significant advancements taking place in application areas such as proteomics -- especially the emergence of focused protein arrays and clinical proteomics -- and the relatively new metabolomics, the demand for mass spectrometers is likely to shoot up, the company said. Advancements in pharmacokinetics are another key driving force, as the need to fill dry pipelines encourages continuous research and the demand for mass spectrometers.

Despite the high price tags of advanced MS systems -- around $1 million -- academic institutions and smaller research facilities are channeling more funds to procure them in an effort to generate the most informative data and be on par with large research centers, according to Frost & Sullivan.

"The fact that even academic and smaller research institutions are willing to pay premium price for procuring sophisticated MS equipment is a major driving factor for the MS instrument and consumables market," the company said. "Though many giants are present in this well-established market, the constant innovation and researchers' drive to create highly efficacious solutions continues to provide fresh opportunities for new entrants."

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