The analysis of advanced glycation endproducts: a mass spectrometry–based approach & its applications

This thesis describes the application and development of new analysis techniques for examining glycated proteins and their precursors in various matrices. The main conclusion of this thesis is that fluid chromatography linked to mass spectrometry is a useful and highly reliable method for analysing biomolecules in complex matrices. Using this technique, it was shown that glycated proteins and their precursors are closely associated with various diseases, such as diabetes, kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. However, further research is needed into the causal relationship between protein glycation and these diseases. The main questions that would need to be explored are how protein glycation can be reduced and how this will affect, for instance, insulin resistance and the development of cardiovascular disease. The application of the techniques described in this thesis will need to play a key role in further research.