Urine Collection and Processing for Protein Biomarker Discovery and Quantification

Background: Urine is a useful source of protein for biomarker discovery and assessment because it is readily available, can be obtained by noninvasive collection methods, and enables monitoring of a wide range of physiologic processes and diseases. Urine aliquots provide enough protein for multiple analyses, combining current protocols with new techniques. Conclusions: Standardized collection and processing protocols are now being established and new methods for protein detection and quantification are emerging to complement traditional immunoassays. The current state of urine collection, specimen processing, and storage is reviewed with regard to discovery and quantification of protein biomarkers for cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(4); 953-9. (C)2010 AACR.