A primer for ZooMS applications in archaeology

Area of Science:

• * Paleoproteomics and Zooarchaeology
• * Analytical Chemistry and Mass Spectrometry

Background:

• * Zooarchaeology by mass spectrometry (ZooMS) is an analytical technique utilizing collagen peptide mass fingerprinting.
• * It employs matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry for identifying animal-derived materials.
• * ZooMS is increasingly vital in archaeology, ecology, and cultural heritage studies for its speed and minimal destructiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To provide a comprehensive overview of ZooMS principles, strengths, and limitations.
• * To guide users in interpreting collagen spectra from archaeological bone samples.
• * To explore the expanding applications of ZooMS, including nonmammalian and noncollagenous materials.

Main Methods:

• * Collagen peptide mass fingerprinting via MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry.
• * Analysis of bone assemblages and cultural heritage objects.
• * Spectra interpretation and assessment of analytical limitations.

Main Results:

• * ZooMS offers a minimally destructive and cost-effective method for rapid taxonomic identification.
• * The technique demonstrates significant potential for application to nonmammalian and noncollagenous protein analyses.
• * Current limitations in accessibility are identified, with proposed future solutions.

Conclusions:

• * ZooMS is a rapidly growing, versatile tool with diverse applications in scientific research and conservation.
• * Understanding its fundamental principles and limitations is crucial for its effective use.
• * Future developments aim to enhance accessibility and expand the scope of ZooMS applications.