Gravitational sampling electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for real-time reaction monitoring

Rationale: The elucidation of chemical reaction mechanisms has attracted tremendous interest in recent years. Here, gravitational sampling electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (GS-ESI-MS) is used to explore a simple method for the real-time monitoring of chemical and biochemical reactions.

Methods: A sample solution in a stainless steel sample well is directly delivered through a fused-silica capillary due to the forces of gravity, capillary action, and electroosmotic flow (EOF). Analyte ions are continuously generated via electrospray ionization from the capillary tip when a high voltage is applied on the sample well.

Results: Liquid solutions (<5 μL) of small organic compounds (e.g., crystal violet) and large biomolecules (e.g., reserpine, angiotensin II, and insulin) were directly analyzed via GS-ESI-MS. In addition, the technique was successfully applied to continuously monitor chemical [e.g. chelation of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) with copper(II), and addition-elimination of aminophenol and acetic anhydride] and biochemical (e.g., unfolding of cytochrome c) reactions in real time, where chelation complexes, reaction intermediates, and protein conformation changes were observed.

Conclusions: GS-ESI-MS is a very simple modification of the ESI technique that does not require sample delivery pumps or nebulizer gases. It is particularly suitable for the analysis of liquid samples and the real-time monitoring of inorganic/organic chemical or biochemical reactions.