Automated Sample Introduction Method for High-Throughput Intact Native Protein Analysis Using Collision Induced Unfolding Coupled with Drift-Tube Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry

Ion mobility-mass spectrometry has become a valuable analytical tool in native protein analysis. In protein structure studies, ion mobility spectrometry provides rotationally averaged collision cross-section values that correlates to size and shape of the biomolecule. For proteins, ground state CCS and accurate mass is not adequate to identify different proteins. Therefore, introduction of gas phase unfolding followed by ion mobility measurements provide unique fingerprints for native protein analysis. This collision induced unfolding (CIU) technique can be utilized to identify proteins and protein complexes. Typical CIU experiments utilize static nano-ESI or standard ESI using a syringe pump for sample introduction which is difficult to automate. In this study, we have developed a new automated sample introduction method for high-throughput CIU experiments which can be adapted for IgG and other proteins.

Presenter: Sheher Banu Mohsin, Ph.D. (Senior Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)

Sheher Mohsin is a senior applications scientist at Agilent Technologies. She received her Ph. D in physical chemistry from the University of Illinois and an MBA from Rockhurst University. She started her career at the US Environmental Protection Agency working on dioxin analysis with high resolution mass spectrometers. She later joined Bayer and worked in the special analysis lab using mass spectrometry to solve problems in synthesis, impurity determination and submission of final product impurity profile to regulatory agencies. Sheher’s current focus is on lipidomics using GC, LC and SFC separations and mass spectrometry. Sheher collaborates with academic and government researchers working on complex problems to come up with innovative, simplified workflows using the latest tools in separation and mass spectrometry.