This research was supported by National Science Foundation (CHE-1710140 and CHE-2108223) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) through grant R01DK071801. A.P. was supported in part by the NIH Chemistry-Biology Interface Training Grant (T32 GM008505). N.V.Q. was supported in part by the National Institutes of Health, under the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Cardiovascular Research Center (T32 HL007936). L.L. would like to acknowledge NIH grants R56 MH110215, S10RR029531, and S10OD025084, as well as funding support from a Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professorship and Charles Melbourne Johnson Professorship with funding provided by the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation and University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy.

<ol>
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Q., Johnson, J., DeLaney, K., Li, L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+Simple+and+Effective+Sample+Preparation+Strategy+for+MALDI-MS+Imaging+of+Neuropeptide+Changes+in+the+Crustacean+Brain+Due+to+Hypoxia+and+Hypercapnia+Stress.">A Simple and Effective Sample Preparation Strategy for MALDI-MS Imaging of Neuropeptide Changes in the Crustacean Brain Due to Hypoxia and Hypercapnia Stress.</a> Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry. 31 (5), 1058-1065 (2020).</li><li>Vu, N. 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V. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Peptides+in+the+brain:+mass+spectrometry-based+measurement+approaches+and+challenges.">Peptides in the brain: mass spectrometry-based measurement approaches and challenges.</a> Annual Review of Analytical Chemistry (Palo Alto, Calif). 1, 451-483 (2008).</li><li>Li, N., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Sequential+Precipitation+and+Delipidation+Enables+Efficient+Enrichment+of+Low-Molecular+Weight+Proteins+and+Peptides+from+Human+Plasma.">Sequential Precipitation and Delipidation Enables Efficient Enrichment of Low-Molecular Weight Proteins and Peptides from Human Plasma.</a> Journal of Proteome Research. 19 (8), 3340-3351 (2020).</li><li>Zhang, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=PEAKS+DB:+de+novo+sequencing+assisted+database+search+for+sensitive+and+accurate+peptide+identification.">PEAKS DB: de novo sequencing assisted database search for sensitive and accurate peptide identification.</a> Molecular &amp; Cellular Proteomics : MCP. 11 (4), (2012).</li><li>Sturm, R. M., Greer, T., Woodards, N., Gemperline, E., Li, L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Mass+spectrometric+evaluation+of+neuropeptidomic+profiles+upon+heat+stabilization+treatment+of+neuroendocrine+tissues+in+crustaceans.">Mass spectrometric evaluation of neuropeptidomic profiles upon heat stabilization treatment of neuroendocrine tissues in crustaceans.</a> Journal of Proteome Research. 12 (2), 743-752 (2013).</li><li>Gutierrez, G. J., Grashow, R. G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Cancer+borealis+stomatogastric+nervous+system+dissection.">Cancer borealis stomatogastric nervous system dissection.</a> Journal of Visualized Experiments: JoVE. 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S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Differential+neuropeptide+modulation+of+premotor+and+motor+neurons+in+the+lobster+cardiac+ganglion.">Differential neuropeptide modulation of premotor and motor neurons in the lobster cardiac ganglion.</a> Journal of Neurophysiology. 124 (4), 1241-1256 (2020).</li><li>Ma, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Combining+in+silico+transcriptome+mining+and+biological+mass+spectrometry+for+neuropeptide+discovery+in+the+Pacific+white+shrimp+Litopenaeus+vannamei.">Combining in silico transcriptome mining and biological mass spectrometry for neuropeptide discovery in the Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei.</a> Peptides. 31 (1), 27-43 (2010).</li><li>Christie, A. E., Stemmler, E. A., Dickinson, P. 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E., Chi, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Prediction+of+the+neuropeptidomes+of+members+of+the+Astacidea+(Crustacea,+Decapoda)+using+publicly+accessible+transcriptome+shotgun+assembly+(TSA)+sequence+data.">Prediction of the neuropeptidomes of members of the Astacidea (Crustacea, Decapoda) using publicly accessible transcriptome shotgun assembly (TSA) sequence data.</a> General and Comparative Endocrinology. 224, 38-60 (2015).</li><li>Livnat, I., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+d-Amino+Acid-Containing+Neuropeptide+Discovery+Funnel.">A d-Amino Acid-Containing Neuropeptide Discovery Funnel.</a> Analytical Chemistry. 88 (23), 11868-11876 (2016).</li><li>Lehrer, R. 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The authors have nothing to disclose.

The accurate identification, quantification, and localization of neuropeptides and endogenous peptides found in the nervous system are crucial toward understanding their function23,24. Mass spectrometry is a powerful technique that can allow all of this to be accomplished, even in organisms without a fully sequenced genome. The ability of this protocol to detect, quantify, and localize neuropeptides from tissue collected from C. sapidus through a combina...

The nervous system is complex and requires a network of neurons to transmit signals throughout an organism. The nervous system coordinates sensory information and biological response. The intricate and convoluted interactions involved in signal transmission require many different signaling molecules such as neurotransmitters, steroids, and neuropeptides. As neuropeptides are the most diverse and potent signaling molecules that play key roles in activating physiological responses to stress and other stimuli, it is of interest to determine their specific role in these physiological processes. Neuropeptide function is related to their amino acid structure, which determines mobility, receptor interaction, and affinity1. Techniques such as histochemistry, which is important because neuropeptides can be synthesized, stored, and released in different regions of the tissue, and electrophysiology have been employed to investigate neuropeptide structure and function2,3,4, but these methods are limited by throughput and specificity to resolve the vast sequence diversity of neuropeptides.
Mass spectrometry (MS) enables the high throughput analysis of neuropeptide structure and abundance. This can be performed through different MS techniques, most commonly liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization MS (LC-ESI-MS)5 and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization MS (MALDI-MS)6. Utilizing high accuracy mass measurements and MS fragmentation, MS provides the ability to assign amino acid sequence and post-translational modification (PTM) status to neuropeptides from complex mixtures without a priori knowledge to aid in ascertaining their function7,8. In addition to qualitative information, MS enables quantitative information of neuropeptides through label-free quantitation (LFQ) or label-based methods such as isotopic or isobaric labeling9. The main advantages of LFQ include its simplicity, low cost of analysis, and decreased sample preparation steps which can minimize sample loss. However, the disadvantages of LFQ include increased instrument time costs as it requires multiple technical replicates to address quantitative error from run-to-run variability. This also leads to a decreased ability to accurately quantify small variations. Label-based methods are subjected to less systematic variation as multiple samples can be differentially labeled using a variety of stable isotopes, combined into one sample, and analyzed through mass spectrometry simultaneously. This also increases throughput, although isotopic labels can be time consuming and costly to synthesize or purchase. Full scan mass spectra (MS1) spectral complexity also increases as multiplexing increases, which decreases the number of unique neuropeptides able to be fragmented and therefore, identified. Conversely, isobaric labeling does not increase spectral complexity at the MS1 level, although it introduces challenges for low abundance analytes such as neuropeptides. As isobaric quantitation is performed at the fragment ion mass spectra (MS2) level, low-abundance neuropeptides may be unable to be quantified as more abundant matrix components may be selected for fragmentation and those selected may not have high enough abundance to be quantified. With isotopic labeling, quantitation can be performed on every identified peptide.
In addition to identification and quantification, localization information can be obtained by MS through MALDI-MS imaging (MALDI-MSI)10. By rastering a laser across a sample surface, MS spectra can be compiled into a heat map image for each m/z value. Mapping transient neuropeptide signal intensity in different regions across conditions can provide valuable information for function determination11. Localization of neuropeptides is especially important because neuropeptide function may differ depending on location12.
Neuropeptides are found in lower abundance in vivo than other signaling molecules, such as neurotransmitters, and thus require sensitive methods for detection13. This can be achieved through the removal of higher abundance matrix components, such as lipids11,14. Additional considerations for the analysis of neuropeptides need to be made when compared to common proteomics workflows, mainly because most neuropeptidomic analyses omit enzymatic digestion. This limits software options for neuropeptide data analysis as most were built with algorithms based on proteomics data and protein matches informed by peptide detection. However, many software such as PEAKS15 is more suited to neuropeptide analysis due to their de novo sequencing capabilities. Several factors need to be considered for the analysis of neuropeptides starting from extraction method to MS data analysis.
The protocols described here include methods for sample preparation and dimethyl isotopic labeling, data acquisition, and data analysis of neuropeptides by LC-ESI-MS, MALDI-MS, and MALDI-MSI. Through representative results from several experiments, the utility and ability of these methods to identify, quantify, and localize neuropeptides from blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus, is demonstrated. To better understand the nervous system, model systems are commonly used. Many organisms do not have a fully sequenced genome available, which prevents comprehensive neuropeptide discovery at the peptide level. In order to mitigate this challenge, a protocol for identifying novel neuropeptides and transcriptome mining to generate databases for organisms without complete genome information is included. All protocols presented here can be optimized for neuropeptide samples from any species, as well as applied for the analysis of any endogenous peptides.

<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Chemicals, Reagents, and Consumables</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB) matrix</td>
			<td>Supelco</td>
			<td>39319</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Acetic acid</td>
			<td>Fisher Chemical</td>
			<td>A38S-500</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Acetonitrile Optima LC/MS grade</td>
			<td>Fisher Chemical</td>
			<td>A955-500</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ammonium bicarbonate</td>
			<td>Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td>9830</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Borane pyridine</td>
			<td>Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td>179752</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Bruker peptide calibration mix</td>
			<td>Bruker Daltonics</td>
			<td>NC9846988</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Capillary</td>
			<td>Polymicro</td>
			<td>1068150019</td>
			<td>to make nanoflow column (75 &#181;m inner diameter x 360 &#181;m outer diameter)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cryostat cup</td>
			<td>Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td>E6032</td>
			<td>any cup or mold should work</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&#160;Microcentrifuge Tubes</td>
			<td>Eppendorf</td>
			<td>30108434</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Formaldehyde</td>
			<td>Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td>252549</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Formaldehyde - D2</td>
			<td>Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td>492620</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Formic acid Optima LC/MS grade</td>
			<td>Fisher Chemical</td>
			<td>A117-50</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Gelatin</td>
			<td>Difco</td>
			<td>214340</td>
			<td>place in 37 &#176;C water bath to melt</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hydrophobic barrier pen</td>
			<td>Vector Labs</td>
			<td>15553953</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass slides</td>
			<td>Delta Technologies</td>
			<td>CB-90IN-S107</td>
			<td>25 mm x 75 mm x 0.8 mm (width x length x thickness)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LC-MS vials</td>
			<td>Thermo</td>
			<td>TFMSCERT5000-30LVW</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Methanol Optima LC/MS Grade</td>
			<td>Fisher Chemical</td>
			<td>A456-500</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Parafilm</td>
			<td>Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td>P7793</td>
			<td>Hydrophobic film</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>pH-Indicator strips</td>
			<td>Supelco</td>
			<td>109450</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Red phosphorus clusters</td>
			<td>Sigma-Aldrich</td>
			<td>343242</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Reversed phase C18 material</td>
			<td>Waters</td>
			<td>186002350</td>
			<td>manually packed into nanoflow column</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Wite-out pen</td>
			<td>BIC</td>
			<td>150810</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>ZipTip</td>
			<td>Millipore</td>
			<td>Z720070</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Instruments and Tools</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Automatic matrix sprayer system- M5</td>
			<td>HTX Technologies, LLC</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Centrifuge - 5424 R</td>
			<td>Eppendorf</td>
			<td>05-401-205</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cryostat- HM 550</td>
			<td>Thermo Fisher Scientific</td>
			<td>956564A</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Desiccant</td>
			<td>Drierite</td>
			<td>2088701</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Forceps</td>
			<td>WPI</td>
			<td>501764</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MALDI stainless steel target plate</td>
			<td>Bruker Daltonics</td>
			<td>8280781</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Pipet-Lite XLS</td>
			<td>Rainin</td>
			<td>17014391</td>
			<td>200 &#181;L</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Q Exactive Plus Hybrid Quadrupole-Orbitrap</td>
			<td>Thermo Fisher Scientific</td>
			<td>IQLAAEGAAPFALGMBDK</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>RapifleX MALDI-TOF/TOF</td>
			<td>Bruker Daltonics</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>SpeedVac - SVC100</td>
			<td>Savant</td>
			<td>SVC-100D</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ultrasonic Cleaner</td>
			<td>Bransonic</td>
			<td>2510R-MTH</td>
			<td>for sonication</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ultrasonic homogenizer</td>
			<td>Fisher Scientific</td>
			<td>FB120110</td>
			<td>FB120 Sonic Dismembrator with CL-18 Probe</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Vaccum pump- Alcatel 2008 A</td>
			<td>Ideal Vacuum Products</td>
			<td>P10976</td>
			<td>ultimate pressure = 1 x 10-4 Torr</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Vortex Mixer</td>
			<td>Corning</td>
			<td>6775</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Water bath (37C) - Isotemp 110</td>
			<td>Fisher Scientific</td>
			<td>15-460-10</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Data Analysis Software</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Expasy</td>
			<td>https://web.expasy.org/translate/</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>FlexAnalysis</td>
			<td>Bruker Daltonics</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>FlexControl</td>
			<td>Bruker Daltonics</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>FlexImaging</td>
			<td>Bruker Daltonics</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>PEAKS Studio</td>
			<td>Bioinformatics Solutions, Inc.</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>SCiLS Lab</td>
			<td>https://scils.de/</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>SignalP 5.0</td>
			<td>https://services.healthtech.dtu.dk/service.php?SignalP-5.0</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>tBLASTn</td>
			<td>http://blast.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Blast.cgi?PROGRAM=tblastn&#38;BLAST_ 
			PROGRAMS=tblastn&#38;PAGE_ 
			TYPE=BlastSearch&#38;SHOW_ 
			DEFAULTS=on&#38;LINK_LOC 
			=blasthome</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

multi-faceted mass spectrometric investigation of neuropeptides in callinectes sapidus

Neuropeptides are signaling molecules that regulate almost all physiological and behavioral processes, such as development, reproduction, food intake, and response to external stressors. Yet, the biochemical mechanisms and full complement of neuropeptides and their functional roles remain poorly understood. Characterization of these endogenous peptides is hindered by the immense diversity within this class of signaling molecules. Additionally, neuropeptides are bioactive at concentrations 100x - 1000x lower than that of neurotransmitters and are prone to enzymatic degradation after synaptic release. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a highly sensitive analytical tool that can identify, quantify, and localize analytes without comprehensive a priori knowledge. It is well-suited for globally profiling neuropeptides and aiding in the discovery of novel peptides. Due to the low abundance and high chemical diversity of this class of peptides, several sample preparation methods, MS acquisition parameters, and data analysis strategies have been adapted from proteomics techniques to allow optimal neuropeptide characterization. Here, methods are described for isolating neuropeptides from complex biological tissues for sequence characterization, quantitation, and localization using liquid chromatography (LC)-MS and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)-MS. A protocol for preparing a neuropeptide database from the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, an organism without comprehensive genomic information, is included. These workflows can be adapted to study other classes of endogenous peptides in different species using a variety of instruments.

The workflow for sample preparation and MS analysis is depicted in Figure 1. After the dissection of neuronal tissue, homogenization, extraction, and desalting are performed to purify neuropeptide samples. If isotopic label-based quantification is desired, samples are then labeled and desalted once again. The resulting sample is analyzed through LC-MS/MS for neuropeptide identification and quantification.
Neuropeptides identified through the proteomics software sh...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Multi-Faceted Mass Spectrometric Investigation of Neuropeptides in Callinectes sapidus at JoVE.com

Multi-Faceted Mass Spectrometric Investigation of Neuropeptides in Callinectes sapidus

Mass spectrometric characterization of neuropeptides provides sequence, quantitation, and localization information. This optimized workflow is not only useful for neuropeptide studies, but also other endogenous peptides. The protocols provided here describe sample preparation, MS acquisition, MS analysis, and database generation of neuropeptides using LC-ESI-MS, MALDI-MS spotting, and MALDI-MS imaging.

Multi-Faceted Mass Spectrometric Investigation of Neuropeptides in Callinectes sapidus

Neuropeptides are signaling molecules that regulate almost all physiological and behavioral processes, such as development, reproduction, food intake, and ...

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Research

JoVE Journal

Chemistry

2.3K Views.  University of Wisconsin-Madison. Mass spectrometric characterization of neuropeptides provides sequence, quantitation, and localization information. This optimized workflow is not only useful for neuropeptide studies, but also other endogenous peptides. The protocols provided here describe sample preparation, MS acquisition, MS analysis, and database generation of neuropeptides using LC-ESI-MS, MALDI-MS spotting, and MALDI-MS imaging.

Video: Multi-Faceted Mass Spectrometric Investigation of Neuropeptides in Callinectes sapidus

Untargeted Metabolomics from Biological Sources Using Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS)

Here we present a workflow to analyze the metabolic profiles for biological samples of interest including; cells, serum, or tissue. The sample is first separated into polar and non-polar fractions by a liquid-liquid phase extraction, and partially purified to facilitate downstream analysis. Both aqueous (polar metabolites) and organic (non-polar metabolites) phases of the initial extraction are processed to survey a broad range of metabolites. Metabolites are separated by different liquid chromatography methods based upon their partition properties. In this method, we present microflow ultra-performance (UP)LC methods, but the protocol is scalable to higher flows and lower pressures. Introduction into the mass spectrometer can be through either general or compound optimized source conditions. Detection of a broad range of ions is carried out in full scan mode in both positive and negative mode over a broad m/z range using high resolution on a recently calibrated instrument. Label-free differential analysis is carried out on bioinformatics platforms. Applications of this approach include metabolic pathway screening, biomarker discovery, and drug development.

Untargeted Metabolomics from Biological Sources Using Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry UPLC-HRMS

Untargeted metabolomics provides a hypothesis generating snapshot of a metabolic profile. This protocol will demonstrate the extraction and analysis of metabolites from cells, serum, or tissue. A range of metabolites are surveyed using liquid-liquid phase extraction, microflow ultraperformance liquid chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS) coupled to differential analysis software.

Here we present a workflow to analyze the metabolic profiles for biological samples of interest including; cells, serum, or tissue. The sample is first ...

Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF) Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Intact Proteins Larger than 100 kDa

Effectively determining masses of proteins is critical to many biological studies (e.g. for structural biology investigations). Accurate mass determination allows one to evaluate the correctness of protein primary sequences, the presence of mutations and/or post-translational modifications, the possible protein degradation, the sample homogeneity, and the degree of isotope incorporation in case of labelling (e.g. 13C labelling).
Electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry (MS) is widely used for mass determination of denatured proteins, but its efficiency is affected by the composition of the sample buffer. In particular, the presence of salts, detergents, and contaminants severely undermines the effectiveness of protein analysis by ESI-MS. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) MS is an attractive alternative, due to its salt tolerance and the simplicity of data acquisition and interpretation. Moreover, the mass determination of large heterogeneous proteins (bigger than 100 kDa) is easier by MALDI-MS due to the absence of overlapping high charge state distributions which are present in ESI spectra.
Here we present an accessible approach for analyzing proteins larger than 100 kDa by MALDI-time of flight (TOF). We illustrate the advantages of using a mixture of two matrices (i.e. 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid and &#945;-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid) and the utility of the thin layer method as approach for sample deposition. We also discuss the critical role of the matrix and solvent purity, of the standards used for calibration, of the laser energy, and of the acquisition time. Overall, we provide information necessary to a novice for analyzing intact proteins larger than 100 kDa by MALDI-MS.

Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Intact Proteins Larger than 100 kDa

Accurate mass measurement represents an important step during the investigation of proteins. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) can be used for such determination and its key advantage is the tolerance to salts, detergents and contaminants. Here we illustrate an accessible approach for the analysis of proteins larger than 100 kDa by MALDI-MS.

Effectively determining masses of proteins is critical to many biological studies (e.g. for structural biology investigations). Accurate mass ...

Mass Spectrometric Approaches to Study Protein Structure and Interactions in Lyophilized Powders

Amide hydrogen/deuterium exchange (ssHDX-MS) and side-chain photolytic labeling (ssPL-MS) followed by mass spectrometric analysis can be valuable for characterizing lyophilized formulations of protein therapeutics. Labeling followed by suitable proteolytic digestion allows the protein structure and interactions to be mapped with peptide-level resolution. Since the protein structural elements are stabilized by a network of chemical bonds from the main-chains and side-chains of amino acids, specific labeling of atoms in the amino acid residues provides insight into the structure and conformation of the protein. In contrast to routine methods used to study proteins in lyophilized solids (e.g., FTIR), ssHDX-MS and ssPL-MS provide quantitative and site-specific information. The extent of deuterium incorporation and kinetic parameters can be related to rapidly and slowly exchanging amide pools (Nfast, Nslow) and directly reflects the degree of protein folding and structure in lyophilized formulations. Stable photolytic labeling does not undergo back-exchange, an advantage over ssHDX-MS. Here, we provide detailed protocols for both ssHDX-MS and ssPL-MS, using myoglobin (Mb) as a model protein in lyophilized formulations containing either trehalose or sorbitol.

Here, we present detailed protocols for solid-state amide hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (ssHDX-MS) and solid-state photolytic labeling mass spectrometry (ssPL-MS) for proteins in solid powders. The methods provide high-resolution information on protein conformation and interactions in the amorphous solid-state, which may be useful in formulation design.

Amide hydrogen/deuterium exchange (ssHDX-MS) and side-chain photolytic labeling (ssPL-MS) followed by mass spectrometric analysis can be valuable for ...

Sequencing of Plant Wall Heteroxylans Using Enzymic, Chemical (Methylation) and Physical (Mass Spectrometry, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) Techniques

This protocol describes the specific techniques used for the characterization of reducing end (RE) and internal region glycosyl sequence(s) of heteroxylans. De-starched wheat endosperm cell walls were isolated as an alcohol-insoluble residue (AIR)1 and sequentially extracted with water (W-sol Fr) and 1 M KOH containing 1% NaBH4 (KOH-sol Fr) as described by Ratnayake et al. (2014)2. Two different approaches (see summary in Figure 1) are adopted. In the first, intact W-sol AXs are treated with 2AB to tag the original RE backbone chain sugar residue and then treated with an endoxylanase to generate a mixture of 2AB-labelled RE and internal region reducing oligosaccharides, respectively. In a second approach, the KOH-sol Fr is hydrolyzed with endoxylanase to first generate a mixture of oligosaccharides which are subsequently labelled with 2AB. The enzymically released ((un)tagged) oligosaccharides from both W- and KOH-sol Frs are then methylated and the detailed structural analysis of both the native and methylated oligosaccharides is performed using a combination of MALDI-TOF-MS, RP-HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS and ESI-MSn. Endoxylanase digested KOH-sol AXs are also characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) that also provides information on the anomeric configuration. These techniques can be applied to other classes of polysaccharides using the appropriate endo-hydrolases.

Sequencing of Plant Wall Heteroxylans Using Enzymic, Chemical Methylation and Physical Mass Spectrometry, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Techniques

This protocol describes the specific techniques used for the structural characterization of reducing end (RE) and internal region glycosyl sequence(s) of heteroxylans by tagging the RE with 2 aminobenzamide prior to enzymatic (endoxylanase) hydrolysis and then analysis of the resultant oligosaccharides using mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).

This protocol describes the specific techniques used for the characterization of reducing end (RE) and internal region glycosyl sequence(s) of ...

HKUST-1 as a Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Synthesis of Vanillin

Vanillin (4-hydoxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde) is the main component of the extract of vanilla bean. The natural vanilla scent is a mixture of approximately 200 different odorant compounds in addition to vanillin. The natural extraction of vanillin (from the orchid Vanilla planifolia, Vanilla tahitiensis and Vanilla pompon) represents only 1% of the worldwide production and since this process is expensive and very long, the rest of the production of vanillin is synthesized. Many biotechnological approaches can be used for the synthesis of vanillin from lignin, phenolic stilbenes, isoeugenol, eugenol, guaicol, etc., with the disadvantage of harming the environment since these processes use strong oxidizing agents and toxic solvents. Thus, eco-friendly alternatives on the production of vanillin are very desirable and thus, under current investigation. Porous coordination polymers (PCPs) are a new class of highly crystalline materials that recently have been used for catalysis. HKUST-1 (Cu3(BTC)2(H2O)3, BTC = 1,3,5-benzene-tricarboxylate) is a very well known PCP which has been extensively studied as a heterogeneous catalyst. Here, we report a synthetic strategy for the production of vanillin by the oxidation of trans-ferulic acid using HKUST-1 as a catalyst.

The conversion of trans-ferulic acid to vanillin was achieved by heterogeneous catalysis. HKUST-1 was employed in this synthesis and the essential step in the catalytic process was the generation of unsaturated metal sites. Thus, when the catalyst was activated under vacuum, full vanillin conversion (yield of 95%) was obtained.

Vanillin (4-hydoxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde) is the main component of the extract of vanilla bean. The natural vanilla scent is a mixture of approximately ...

A Two-Step Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography Method with Mass Spectrometric Detection for Identification of Tattoo Ink Ingredients and Counterfeit Products

Tattoo inks are complex mixtures of ingredients. Each of them possesses different chemical properties which have to be addressed upon chemical analysis. In this method for two-step pyrolysis online coupled to gas chromatography mass spectrometry (py-GC-MS) volatile compounds are analyzed during a first desorption run. In the second run, the same dried sample is pyrolyzed for analysis of non-volatile compounds such as pigments and polymers. These can be identified by their specific decomposition patterns. Additionally, this method can be used to differentiate original from counterfeit inks. Easy screening methods for data evaluation using the average mass spectra and self-made pyrolysis libraries are applied to speed up substance identification. Using specialized evaluation software for pyrolysis GS-MS data, a fast and reliable comparison of the full chromatogram can be achieved. Since GC-MS is used as separation technique, the method is limited to volatile substances upon desorption and after pyrolysis of the sample. The method can be applied for quick substance screening in market control surveys since it requires no sample preparation steps.

This method for two-step pyrolysis online coupled to gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection and data evaluation protocol can be used for multi-component analysis of tattoo inks and discrimination of counterfeit products.

Tattoo inks are complex mixtures of ingredients. Each of them possesses different chemical properties which have to be addressed upon chemical analysis. ...

In situ FTIR Spectroscopy as a Tool for Investigation of Gas/Solid Interaction: Water-Enhanced CO2 Adsorption in UiO-66 Metal-Organic Framework

In situ infrared spectroscopy is an inexpensive, highly sensitive, and selective valuable tool to investigate the interaction of polycrystalline solids with adsorbates. Vibrational spectra provide information on the chemical nature of adsorbed species and their structure. Thus, they are very useful for obtaining molecular level understanding of surface species. The IR spectrum of the sample itself gives some direct information about the material. General conclusions can be drawn concerning hydroxyl groups, some stable surface species and impurities. However, the spectrum of the sample is &#34;blind&#34; with respect to the presence of coordinatively unsaturated ions and gives rather poor information about the acidity of surface hydroxyls, species decisive for the adsorption and catalytic properties of the materials. Furthermore, no discrimination between bulk and surface species can be made. These problems are solved by the use of probe molecules, substances that interact specifically with the surface; the alteration of some spectral features of these molecules as a result of adsorption provides valuable information about the nature, properties, location, concentration, etc., of the surface sites.
The experimental protocol for in-situ IR studies of gas/sample interaction includes preparation of a sample pellet, activation of the material, initial spectral characterization through the analysis of the background spectra, characterization by probe molecules, and study of the interaction with a particular set of gas mixtures. In this paper we investigate a zirconium terephthalate metal organic framework, Zr6O4(OH)4(BDC)6 (BDC = benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate), namely UiO-66 (UiO refers to University of Oslo). The acid sites of the UiO-66 sample are determined by using CO and CD3CN as molecular probes. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that CO2 is adsorbed on basic sites exposed on dehydroxylated UiO-66. Introduction of water to the system produces hydroxyl groups acting as additional CO2 adsorption sites. As a result, CO2 adsorption capacity of the sample is strongly enhanced.

In situ FTIR Spectroscopy as a Tool for Investigation of Gas/Solid Interaction: Water-Enhanced CO2 Adsorption in UiO-66 Metal-Organic Framework

The use of FTIR spectroscopy for investigation of the surface properties of polycrystalline solids is described. Preparation of sample pellets, activation procedures, characterization with probe molecules and model studies of CO2 adsorption are discussed.

In situ infrared spectroscopy is an inexpensive, highly sensitive, and selective valuable tool to investigate the interaction of polycrystalline solids ...

Cell-Lineage Guided Mass Spectrometry Proteomics in the Developing (Frog) Embryo

Characterization of molecular events as cells give rise to tissues and organs raises a potential to better understand normal development and design efficient remedies for diseases. Technologies enabling accurate identification and quantification of diverse types and large numbers of proteins would provide still missing information on molecular mechanisms orchestrating tissue and organism development in space and time. Here, we present a mass spectrometry-based protocol that enables the measurement of thousands of proteins in identified cell lineages in Xenopus laevis (frog) embryos. The approach builds on reproducible cell-fate maps and established methods to identify, fluorescently label, track, and sample cells and their progeny (clones) from this model of vertebrate development. After collecting cellular contents using microsampling or isolating cells by dissection or fluorescence-activated cell sorting, proteins are extracted and processed for bottom-up proteomic analysis. Liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis are used to provide scalable separation for protein detection and quantification with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Representative examples are provided for the proteomic characterization of neural-tissue fated cells. Cell-lineage-guided HRMS proteomics is adaptable to different tissues and organisms. It is sufficiently sensitive, specific, and quantitative to peer into the spatio-temporal dynamics of the proteome during vertebrate development.

Cell-Lineage Guided Mass Spectrometry Proteomics in the Developing Frog Embryo

Here we describe a mass spectrometry-based proteomic characterization of cell lineages with known tissue fates in the vertebrate Xenopus laevis embryo.

Characterization of molecular events as cells give rise to tissues and organs raises a potential to better understand normal development and design ...

Characterizing RNA Modifications in Single Neurons Using Mass Spectrometry

Post-transcriptional modifications (PTMs) of RNA represent an understudied mechanism involved in the regulation of translation in the central nervous system (CNS). Recent evidence has linked specific neuronal RNA modifications to learning and memory paradigms. Unfortunately, conventional methods for the detection of these epitranscriptomic features are only capable of characterizing highly abundant RNA modifications in bulk tissues, precluding the assessment of unique PTM profiles that may exist for individual neurons within the activated behavioral circuits. In this protocol, an approach is described&#8212;single-neuron RNA modification analysis by mass spectrometry (SNRMA-MS)&#8212;to simultaneously detect and quantify numerous modified ribonucleosides in single neurons. The approach is validated using individual neurons of the marine mollusk, Aplysia californica, beginning with surgical isolation and enzymatic treatment of major CNS ganglia to expose neuron cell bodies, followed by manual single-neuron isolation using sharp needles and a micropipette. Next, mechanical and thermal treatment of the sample in a small volume of buffer is done to liberate RNA from an individual cell for subsequent RNA digestion. Modified nucleosides are then identified and quantified using an optimized liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method. SNRMA-MS is employed to establish RNA modification patterns for single, identified neurons from A. californica that have known morphologies and functions. Examples of qualitative and quantitative SNRMA-MS are presented that highlight the heterogeneous distribution of RNA modifications across individual neurons in neuronal networks.

Post-transcriptional modifications of RNA represent an understudied layer of translation regulation that has recently been linked to central nervous system plasticity. Here, sample preparation and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry approach is described for simultaneous characterization of numerous RNA modifications in single neurons.

Post-transcriptional modifications (PTMs) of RNA represent an understudied mechanism involved in the regulation of translation in the central nervous ...

Extraction of Non-Protein Amino Acids from Cyanobacteria for Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis

Non-protein amino acids (NPAAs) are a large class of amino acids (AAs) that are not genetically encoded for translation into proteins. The analysis of NPAAs can provide crucial information about cellular uptake and/or function, metabolic pathways, and potential toxicity. &#946;-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a neurotoxic NPAA produced by various algae species and is associated with an increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases, which has led to significant research interest. There are numerous ways to extract AAs for analysis, with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry being the most common, requiring protein precipitation followed by acid hydrolysis of the protein pellet. Studies on the presence of BMAA in algal species provide contradictory results, with the use of unvalidated sample preparation/extraction and analysis a primary cause. Like most NPAAs, protein precipitation in 10% aqueous TCA and hydrolysis with fuming HCl is the most appropriate form of extraction for BMAA and its isomers aminoethylglycine (AEG) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB). The present protocol describes the steps in a validated NPAA extraction method commonly used in research and teaching laboratories.

The present protocol describes the extraction of non-protein amino acids from biological matrices via trichloroacetic acid (TCA) protein precipitation and acid hydrolysis before analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Non-protein amino acids (NPAAs) are a large class of amino acids (AAs) that are not genetically encoded for translation into proteins. The analysis of ...