Transferrin as a model system for method development to study structure, dynamics and interactions of metalloproteins using mass spectrometry.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Transferrin (Tf) is a paradigmatic metalloprotein, which has been extensively studied in the past and still is a focal point of numerous investigation efforts owing to its unique role in iron homeostasis and enormous promise as a component of a wide range of therapies.

Scope of review

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI MS) is a potent analytical tool that has been used successfully to study various properties of Tf and Tf-based products, ranging from covalent structure and metal binding to conformation and interaction with their physiological partners.

Major conclusions

Various ESI MS-based techniques produce unique information on Tf properties and behavior that is highly complementary to information provided by other experimental techniques.

SUBMITTER: Kaltashov IA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3207020 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature