New high resolution mass spectrometry facilities for macromolecules and metabolites at the University of East Anglia

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Mass spectrometry has revolutionized many aspects of research in the molecular sciences, through its ability to unambiguously identify molecules by measuring their mass with incredible accuracy. UEA researchers have pioneered the use of a particular type of mass spectrometry in studies of proteins, fascinating workhorse molecules of life that are dynamic in the way they interact with each other and with small molecules. Many proteins contain fragile metal cofactors that are able to react chemically in ways that proteins alone cannot. These cofactors are often pre-assembled (by complex pathways) and then inserted into the protein much like a factory assembly line. The chemistry that goes on at these cofactors often involves changes in mass that controls protein function. UEA researchers have used a type of gentle mass spectrometry that preserves the fragile cofactors, and have been able to 'watch' reactions happen by measuring the resulting usually small changes in mass, providing unprecedented insight into processes that are essentially invisible to other methods. This work has revealed how bacteria sense key environmental ques such as oxygen and iron availability, which are known to be virulence factors that regulate infection. The aim of this bid for a new mass spectrometer with state of the art capabilities is to apply mass spectrometry to a broader range of cofactor-containing proteins that cannot be studied using existing limited facilities. Proposed projects include understanding the assembly of the hydrogenase cofactor and the development of biohybrid materials, both of which are relevant to bioenergy, small molecules that bind DNA as tools and potential therapeutics, and the discovery of novel natural antifungal molecules that may have potential for use in the protection of valuable crops. The new instrument will benefit researchers at UEA more broadly as it will make accessible technologies that are not currently available.