Applications of matrix-assisted laser desorption fourier transform mass spectrometry for biomolecules

Abstract

Matrix-assisted laser desorption FTMS provides a powerful technique for the generation and structural characterization of normal and modified oligonucleotides. Examination of these compounds using 266 nm radiation and a nicotinic acid matrix revealed (M-H)⁻ ions as well as fragment ions which provided structural information. The fragmentation observed resulted primarily from elimination of nucleosides from the 5′ end of the oligomers and provided information which could be used to differentiate isomers. Experiments are in progress to extend the application of this ionization technique for larger biomolecules. Preliminary results indicate that ion trapping considerations need to be examined, due to the fact that large laser-generated ions may have significant kinetic energy distributions and may be poorly trapped in the FTMS cell. Current research is directed at determining efficient methods of cooling or decelerating the laser-generated ions.