Temperature-Controlled Electrospray Ionization: Recent Progress and Applications

Native electrospray ionization (ESI) and nanoelectrospray ionization (nESI) allow researchers to analyze intact biomolecules and their complexes by mass spectrometry (MS). The data acquired using these soft ionization techniques provide a snapshot of a given biomolecules structure in solution. Over the last thirty years, several nESI and ESI sources capable of controlling spray solution temperature have been developed. These sources can be used to elucidate the thermodynamics of a given analyte, as well as provide structural information that cannot be readily obtained by other, more commonly used techniques. This review highlights how the field of temperature-controlled mass spectrometry has developed.

Automated summary

Native electrospray ionization (ESI) and nanoelectrospray ionization (nESI) techniques enable researchers to analyze intact biomolecules and their complexes, providing a snapshot of the structures in solution. Development of nESI and ESI sources capable of controlling spray solution temperature over the past thirty years has allowed for elucidation of analyte thermodynamics and acquisition of unique structural information. This review emphasizes the evolution of temperature-controlled mass spectrometry in providing insights into biomolecular structures.