An improved rapid mixing device for time-resolved electrospray mass spectrometry measurements

Time series data can provide valuable insight into the complexity of biological reactions. Such information can be obtained by mass-spectrometry-based approaches that measure pre-steady-state kinetics. These methods are based on a mixing device that rapidly mixes the reactants prior to the on-line mass measurement of the transient intermediate steps. Here, we describe an improved continuous-flow mixing apparatus for real-time electrospray mass spectrometry measurements. Our setup was designed to minimize metal-solution interfaces and provide a sheath flow of nitrogen gas for generating stable and continuous spray that consequently enhances the signal-to-noise ratio. Moreover, the device was planned to enable easy mounting onto a mass spectrometer replacing the commercial electrospray ionization source. We demonstrate the performance of our apparatus by monitoring the unfolding reaction of cytochrome C, yielding improved signal-to-noise ratio and reduced experimental repeat errors.