Discovery and Characterization of an Acid-Labile Serine-Lysine Cross-Link in Antibody High-Molecular-Weight Species Using a Multipronged Mass Spectrometry Approach

Anal Chem. 2023 Sep 19;95(37):13813-13821. doi: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c01602. Epub 2023 Sep 7.

Abstract

Characterizing the cross-links responsible for the covalent high-molecular-weight (HMW) species in therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) is of great importance as it not only provides a framework for risk assessment but also offers insights for process improvement. However, owing to the complexity and low abundance, identification of novel and unknown cross-links in mAb products can be very challenging. Here, applying a multipronged MS-based approach, we report the discovery of a novel covalent cross-link formed via an imine bond between lysine and serine residues. In particular, this Ser-Lys cross-link was found to be acid-labile and can be easily overlooked by conventional LC-MS techniques operated at low pH. It is worth noting that although imine-based cross-link has been previously reported in collagen protein cross-linking, this is the first time that a Ser-Lys cross-link has been found in a mAb product that contributes to covalent HMW species formation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal*
  • Imines
  • Lysine*
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Serine

Substances

  • Lysine
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Imines
  • Serine