Mass Spectrometry in Biophysics: Conformation and Dynamics of Biomolecules

The first systematic summary of biophysical mass spectrometry techniques

Recent advances in mass spectrometry (MS) have pushed the frontiers of analytical chemistry into the biophysical laboratory. As a result, the biophysical community's acceptance of MS-based methods, used to study protein higher-order structure and dynamics, has accelerated the expansion of biophysical MS.

Despite this growing trend, until now no single text has presented the full array of MS-based experimental techniques and strategies for biophysics. Mass Spectrometry in Biophysics expertly closes this gap in the literature.

Covering the theoretical background and technical aspects of each method, this much-needed reference offers an unparalleled overview of the current state of biophysical MS. Mass Spectrometry in Biophysics begins with a helpful discussion of general biophysical concepts and MS-related techniques. Subsequent chapters address:

* Modern spectrometric hardware

* High-order structure and dynamics as probed by various MS-based methods

* Techniques used to study structure and behavior of non-native protein states that become populated under denaturing conditions

* Kinetic aspects of protein folding and enzyme catalysis

* MS-based methods used to extract quantitative information on protein-ligand interactions

* Relation of MS-based techniques to other experimental tools

* Biomolecular properties in the gas phase

Fully referenced and containing a helpful appendix on the physics of electrospray mass spectrometry, Mass Spectrometry in Biophysics also offers a compelling look at the current challenges facing biomolecular MS and the potential applications that will likely shape its future.

Keywords: SCIENCE / Chemistry / Industrial & Technical SCI013060