Next-Generation Protein Sequencing™ integrates with top-down MS to distinguish native and artifactual proteoforms

Summary: 

In collaboration with Northwestern University, we utilized Next-Generation Protein Sequencing™ (NGPS) via Platinum® and top-down mass spectrometry (TD-MS) to discern peptides with N-terminal glutamine (Q) versus pyroglutamate (pE) – a post-translational modification (PTM) important for bioactivity and implicated in neurodegeneration. As pE is not only generated via biological processes but also common sample prep/instrument settings, complementary NGPS and TD-MS can limit undesirable pE artifacts and enable accurate detection of bona fide proteoforms.