Methods for sequencing polymers using mass spectrometry
AssigneePerSeptive Biosystems, Inc.
InventorsDale H. Patterson, George E. Tarr
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Abstract
The methods and apparatus disclosed herein are useful for sequencing polymers using mass spectrometry. The methods involve differing ratios of hydrolyzing agent to polymer disposed upon a reaction surface adapted for use with a mass spectrometer. The methods further involve integrating data obtained from mass spectrometry analysis of a plurality of series of hydrolyzed polymer fragments, and optionally provide statistical interpretation paradigms and computer software therefor. The apparatus involves a mass spectrometer sample holder, having hydrolyzing agent disposed thereon, which is useful for adapting any mass spectrometer for polymer sequencing.
Claims27
A method of obtaining sequence information about a polymer comprising different monomers, said method comprising the steps of:
- (a) on a reaction surface having spatially separate areas, providing
- (i) at least one amount of a hydrolyzing agent which hydrolyzes said polymer thereby to break inter-monomer bonds, and
- (ii) a sample of said polymer, to form differing ratios of agent to polymer on said reaction surface;
- (b) incubating the product of step (a) for a time sufficient to obtain a plurality of series of hydrolyzed polymer fragments;
- (c) performing mass spectrometry on said plurality of series to obtain mass-to-charge ratio data for hydrolyzed polymer fragments contained therein;
- and,
- (d) integrating data from said plurality of series to obtain sequence information of said polymer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.