This core provides analysis of biological samples for protein identification using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Qualified scientific and technical personnel can also provide consultation for experimental design, sample preparation, as well as analyses for protein identification, determination of relative abundance of proteins in different samples and identification of post-translational modifications in proteins. 

The Proteomics Core is equipped with a Thermo Scientific LTQ Linear Ion Trap mass spectrometer. The instrument has an electrospray ionization (ESI) source and is connected to a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system. Proteins in gel-bands or from cellular fractions are digested with protease (i.e. trypsin) and the resulting peptides are separated by 1D/2D HPLC and analyzed by mass spectrometry. The mass and charge of each peptide is determined in the first stage of analysis. The peptides are then selectively fragmented (collision induced dissociation), and the mass and charge of the resultant peptide fragments are measured. The resulting spectra are compared with those predicted from protein or nucleotide databases using a suite of software to identify the proteins.

You may download the proteomics sample submission form (PDF). (Also available in XLS format.)

Proteomics Core External User Fees

• LTQ mass spec run: $200 per sample
• In-gel digestion: $50 per sample

Turn-around time is normally 1-2 weeks. Please contact the Proteomics Core Manager, Dr. Yuko Ogata at (206) 256-7287 to discuss special requirements for your project or to submit samples.