CPSA Digest 2003

Day 1

Vendor Session - Proteomics Technologies & Applications

An Overview of NanoLC and Sample Preparation Strategies for Mass Spectrometry in the Field of Proteomics

In the field of proteomics, scientists are faced with increasing challenges in characterizing proteins in an attempt to understand function at the cellular level. Such understanding is critical in diagnosis and prevention of disease. In response, analytical methodology has expanded rapidly with emerging new technologies in sample preparation, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry. The purpose of this presentation will be to highlight some recent developments in the Waters Life Sciences R&D laboratories in providing enabling tools to meet unique challenges in life sciences research. Some of these new tools include advances in sample preparation techniques. One example is a new chemical reagent, RapiGest™ SF, which improves solubility of hydrophobic proteins, and is capable of accelerating protein digestion, without generating interfering background ion signals in MALDI and ESI LC/MS. Results for a new MALDI sample target plate, the MassPREP™ PROTarget™ , which integrates both sample concentration and desalting, will be presented. New tools for nanoLC/MS/MS separations for protein analysis and identification will be also be highlighted, including results from NanoEase™ 75 µm, 100 µm, and 180 µm id analytical capillary columns packed with Symmetry™ and Atlantis™ C 18 stationary phases. These columns have unique features that provide optimal performance for nanoscale LC separations, with minimal dead volume, good column-to-column reproducibility, and robustness. LC/MS/MS application examples for a new format of OPTI-PAK™ C 18 trapping and SCX columns will also be presented. These columns provide an integrated solution for both 1D and 2D nanoLC separations.

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