Method and system for analysis of peptides and proteins

摘要

A method for analysis of peptides and proteins. A peptide or protein is exposed to a coupling reagent and a buffer. The coupling reagent derivatizes the terminal amino acid residue of the peptide or protein. A cleaving-reagent is then passed across the peptide or protein in the form of a spray to cleave the derivatized terminal amino acid residue from the peptide or protein. The apparatus includes a suitable support on which a peptide or protein can be disposed. The support is disposed in a reaction chamber. Pressurized sources of a suitable coupling reagent and a buffer are connected to the reaction chamber to allow exposure of the peptide or protein on the support to the coupling reagent and the buffer. A valve is also connected to the reaction chamber. The valve includes a sliding member which causes a gas and a liquid cleaving reagent to combine, whereby a spray is formed which is conducted from the valve to the reaction chamber. The spray thereby passes across the peptide or protein on the support and cleaves the derivatized terminal residue from the peptide or protein. The terminal residue is thus liberated for isolation and identification.