Mass spectrometry-based monitoring of millisecond protein–ligand binding dynamics using an automated microfluidic platform

Abstract

Characterizing protein–ligand binding dynamics is crucial for understanding protein function and for developing new therapeutic agents. We present a novel microfluidic platform that features rapid mixing of protein and ligand solutions, variable incubation times, and an integrated electrospray ionization source for mass spectrometry-based monitoring of protein–ligand binding dynamics. This platform offers many advantages, including solution-based binding, label-free detection, automated operation, rapid mixing, and low sample consumption.