Course description: The course provides the basics in
instrumentation and applications of mass spectrometry in life
sciences with special emphasis on drug discovery, genomics and
proteomics. Integration of mass spectrometric methods with the
utilization of databases is extensively demonstrated. The students
are expected to devise strategies for the exploration of biomolecules
using the discussed methods.
Topics:
Instrumentation
- Ion sources (FAB, PD, LD, MALDI,
ESI, GD, ICP)
- Analyzers (magnetic sector, quadrupole,
TOF, ICR, ion trap)
- Detectors (Faraday cup, electron
multiplier, multichannel plate)
- Data acquisition systems
- Computer aided data evaluation
Applications in life sciences
- Analysis of inorganic components
in biological samples
- Analysis and structure determination
of small organic components (tandem MS/MS techniques)
- Mass spectral databases
- Accurate molecular weight determination
of large protein molecules
- Mapping and sequencing of biopolymers
- Protein and nucleotide databases
- Exploring noncovalent complexes
- Combination of MS with separation
techniques (GC-MS, LC-MS, etc.)
Suggested readings: You are encouraged to read the following journals
on a regular basis: Analytical Chemistry, Journal of the American
Society for Mass Spectrometry, Journal of Mass Spectrometry and
Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry.
Academic Integrity: This course is committed to uphold the standards
described in the Code of Academic Integrity. A
short introduction to the Code is enclosed. The complete Code
is available in the Guide to Student Rights and Responsibilities.
Prerequisites: A strong foundation in analytical chemistry and
permission of the instructor.
Method of evaluation: The following components determine your final
grade: Homework assignments 30%, Classroom contributions 20%,
Final exam 50%.
For more information call me or the Department of Chemistry at
(202) 994-6121.
Schedule and Suggested Problems: Course outline and assignments are available
at the Blackboard
web-site. |
