Intact Mass Analysis of Antibodies
Intact mass analysis of antibodies is an analytical process used to comprehensively assess the structural integrity and consistency of antibody molecules in terms of their quality and structure. This analysis is essential in the development of antibody therapeutics, production quality control, and functional studies. With the growing use of antibody-based drugs in the treatment of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases, intact mass analysis of antibodies has become a central component of biopharmaceutical research and proteomics.
The Need for Intact Mass Analysis of Antibodies
Antibodies are complex protein molecules composed of two heavy chains and two light chains, connected by disulfide bonds and non-covalent interactions. Due to their intricate structure, antibodies are susceptible to degradation, aggregation, and modification during production, storage, or use. These changes can alter the antibody's efficacy, safety, and stability. As such, performing intact mass analysis of antibodies is critical to ensuring their structural integrity and functional consistency, both of which are crucial for drug development and quality control.
Intact mass analysis also plays a key role in identifying post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as glycosylation, deamidation, and oxidation, which have significant implications for antibody function and pharmacokinetics. Furthermore, it is an indispensable tool for assessing the homogeneity and batch-to-batch consistency of antibody drugs.
Methods and Techniques for Intact Mass Analysis of Antibodies
Intact mass analysis involves several high-precision techniques, each offering unique advantages and providing detailed insights for different analytical needs.
Mass Spectrometry (MS)
Mass spectrometry is one of the most important tools for antibody quality analysis. High-resolution mass spectrometers, such as Orbitrap or FTICR-MS, directly measure the molecular weight of antibodies, assessing their integrity. In addition, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is used to determine the amino acid sequence, identify PTMs, and analyze glycosylation profiles.
1. Capillary Electrophoresis (CE)
Capillary electrophoresis assesses the charge heterogeneity and molecular weight distribution of antibodies by analyzing their migration in an electric field. It is particularly useful for detecting antibody aggregation and degradation.
2. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
HPLC combines multiple separation techniques, such as reverse-phase chromatography and ion-exchange chromatography, to analyze antibody purity, aggregation state, and glycosylation modifications.
3. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)
Dynamic light scattering is a non-destructive method for measuring the size distribution of antibody molecules. It is an effective tool for rapidly evaluating antibody aggregation and solution stability.
Applications of Intact Mass Analysis of Antibodies
1. Drug Development
In the development of antibody therapeutics, intact mass analysis is crucial for assessing the safety, efficacy, and stability of candidate molecules.
2. Production Quality Control
During the production of antibody drugs, intact mass analysis ensures batch-to-batch consistency and product homogeneity, helping to minimize variability.
3. Biomarker Research
In basic research, intact mass analysis of antibodies provides valuable insights into the relationship between antibody structure and function.
MtoZ Biolabs offers comprehensive intact mass analysis services for antibodies, backed by advanced analytical platforms and extensive technical expertise. Our services cover molecular weight determination, PTM analysis, aggregation, and degradation assessments. Utilizing the Thermo Fisher Orbitrap Fusion Lumos mass spectrometer, high-performance liquid chromatography systems, and various electrophoresis platforms, MtoZ Biolabs ensures high-sensitivity and high-resolution results, meeting the highest standards in research and production. We provide customized solutions tailored to specific client needs, offering robust technical support for antibody research and development.
MtoZ Biolabs, an integrated chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS) services provider.
Related Services
How to order?
