HDX MS: A New Perspective on Protein Structural Dynamics

Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry (HDX MS) is a powerful technique used to study the three-dimensional structure, folding, dynamics, and interactions between proteins or between proteins and other molecules. This method is based on the natural exchange phenomenon of hydrogen atoms with deuterium (an isotope of hydrogen) in the side chains of protein amino acid residues.

 

In a solvent containing deuterium, the hydrogen atoms in the amino acid residues of the proteins will be replaced by deuterium atoms. The rate of this hydrogen/deuterium exchange can be measured by mass spectrometry and is closely related to the structure and dynamics of the protein.

 

Dynamic Information

HDX MS can provide information about protein dynamics, including which regions are relatively fixed (less hydrogen/deuterium exchange) and which regions are more flexible (more hydrogen/deuterium exchange). This helps to understand how proteins work and how their activity is affected by their three-dimensional structure.

 

Protein Interactions

When proteins interact or bind to ligands, their hydrogen/deuterium exchange patterns may change. By comparing the exchange patterns under different states, HDX MS can help identify protein interaction interfaces or binding sites.

 

Disease Research and Drug Development

HDX MS not only helps scientists understand the structure and function of disease-related proteins but also plays a role in drug discovery and development. For example, it can identify potential drug targets or assess the binding characteristics of candidate drugs to their targets.