Chapter 10: LC-MS for the Determination of the Enzymatic Activity of Proteins

The detection and identification of enzymatic activity of proteins is of great research interest. In recent years mass spectrometric detection for those investigations has gained increasing importance and several experimental setups have been described in the literature. This chapter presents different optionsfor following enzymatic reactions using mass spectrometric detection. Besides the ‘standard’ LS-MS setup,the continuous monitoring of enzymatic reactions by direct infusion by means of either a syringe pump or a robot-chip device are discussed. The main differences, advantages and disadvantages of the various approaches are highlighted. The chapter provides practical information as well as tips and tricks to avoid problems and pitfalls.