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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
13:09
Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Glycosphingolipid Antigens
Published on: April 16, 2013
Mass spectrometry and glycomics
1Department of Biochemistry, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. jzaia@bu.edu
Omics : a Journal of Integrative Biology
|May 7, 2010
Summary
Mass spectrometry is crucial for analyzing glycoconjugates, which are vital for cell adhesion and glycoprotein drugs. This review details mass spectrometry methods for various glycan types, aiding glycomics research and drug development.
Area of Science:
- Glycomics and Glycobiology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cell surface glycosylation dictates cell adhesion and tissue organization.
- Glycan structures are dynamic, varying with location and time, impacting physiology.
- Recombinant glycoproteins are significant in the pharmaceutical market, requiring robust analytical methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review mass spectrometry (MS) methods for analyzing glycoconjugate glycans.
- To highlight MS techniques suitable for glycomics, focusing on chemical properties of glycans.
- To provide an update on mass spectral glycoproteomics.
Main Methods:
- Mass spectral profiling for N-linked, O-linked, ganglioside, and glycosaminoglycan analysis.
- Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) for detailed glycan structure elucidation.
- Review of established and emerging mass spectrometry techniques in glycomics.
Main Results:
- Mass spectrometry is a key technology for comprehensive glycan analysis.
- Specific MS methods are detailed for different glycoconjugate classes.
- The review covers profiling, tandem MS, and glycoproteomics approaches.
Conclusions:
- Effective mass spectrometry methods are essential for advancing glycomics research.
- These analytical techniques support the development of glycoprotein therapeutics and biosimilars.
- Mass spectrometry is indispensable for understanding glycan roles in health and disease.
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