Ammonium Acetate (2.5kg)

Applications in Peptide Research and LC-MS Analysis

In peptide research and LC-MS analysis, ammonium acetate serves several crucial functions:

1. Mobile Phase Additive: Commonly used as a buffer in LC-MS mobile phases, typically at concentrations of 5-20 mM. It helps maintain a stable pH and improves peak shape and resolution in peptide separations.
2. Ion-Pairing Agent: Acts as a volatile ion-pairing agent in reversed-phase liquid chromatography, enhancing the retention and separation of peptides.
3. Electrospray Ionization Enhancer: Facilitates the ionization process in electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry, improving the detection sensitivity for peptides and proteins.
4. pH Control: Helps maintain a near-neutral pH (around 6.5-7.5) in LC-MS buffers, which is often optimal for peptide analysis and preserves the structural integrity of sensitive biomolecules.
5. Salt Adduct Formation: Can form adducts with peptides in mass spectrometry, which can be useful for charge state manipulation and mass calibration.
6. Sample Preparation: Used in sample preparation steps for peptide analysis, such as in desalting protocols or as a component in digestion buffers.
7. Native MS: Employed in native mass spectrometry of proteins and protein complexes, helping to maintain native-like conditions during ionization.

The volatility of ammonium acetate makes it particularly suitable for LC-MS applications, as it does not leave residues in the ion source, reducing contamination and maintenance requirements. Its ability to form both positive (ammonium) and negative (acetate) ions makes it versatile for both positive and negative ion mode MS analyses of peptides and proteins.