Label-free visual proteomics: Coupling MS- and EM-based approaches in structural biology

Area of Science:

• Structural Biology
• Proteomics
• Biophysics

Background:

• Biological systems are understood through integrating diverse experimental data.
• Complementary structural and functional information is obtained from multiple techniques.
• Combining cryoelectron microscopy/tomography (cryo-EM/ET) and mass spectrometry (MS) is a potent strategy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight recent advances in protein structure and interactome determination.
• To showcase the benefits of integrating cryo-EM/ET with MS analysis.
• To provide a perspective on future applications of this combined approach.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing cryo-EM/ET for sub-nanometer visualization of biological specimens.
• Employing MS-based structural proteomics for interactomic and structural information.
• Integrating data from cryo-EM/ET and MS without additional labels.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated achievements in determining protein structures and interactomes.
• Showcased how MS analysis enhances cryo-EM/ET studies.
• Highlighted the ability to visualize biological specimens in near-native states.

Conclusions:

• The combination of cryo-EM/ET and MS bridges molecular and cellular biology.
• This integrated approach provides 3D snapshots of proteomes and interactomes.
• Future studies will continue to leverage this synergy for comprehensive biological insights.