Native Mass Spectrometry (Native MS)

Decoding macromolecular structure and interactions with native mass spectrometry

For key structural biology and biopharmaceutical research insights, characterize intact macromolecules and noncovalent protein–protein and protein–ligand complexes in near-native states with native mass spectrometry (native MS). High-resolution accurate-mass (HRAM) measurements by native MS confirm complex formation and define subunit stoichiometry, binding affinities, and mass heterogeneity, including post-translational modifications (PTMs), and site-specific glycoforms. Native MS also supports rapid, label-free ligand screening by directly detecting protein–ligand interactions, complementing high-resolution structural methods.

For confident native MS analysis of intact macromolecules and noncovalent complexes, Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Mass Spectrometers can provide the required HRAM measurements. Integrated native MS workflows enable high-throughput sample screening prior to high-resolution structural techniques, including cryo-EM, as well as in-depth characterization of complex composition, stoichiometry, PTMs, and binding interactions.