Presentation via Zoom By Kicki Hakansson, National MagLab

Title: Radical Approaches: Breaking Molecules with Electrons to Gain Structural Information

Host: Science Council's MagX Presentation

Discussion Leader: Ryan Rodgers

Abstract: Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) provides unrivaled mass accuracy and resolution compared with other types of mass analyzers. In addition, because analyte ions are trapped inside the ICR cell, a number of complementary approaches for analyte structure determination are available. In particular, the high magnetic field is ideal for confining free electrons and enabling their interactions with trapped ions. Ion-electron reactions differ in outcome based on analyte ion polarity and electron energy, often triggering radical ion chemistry with unique fragmentation outcomes. The analytical superiority of FT-ICR MS is essential to confidently interpret the corresponding highly complex fragment ion mass spectra that translate into valuable structural information, including sites of modification in proteins, branching patterns in carbohydrates, and double bond positions in lipids.