Mass Spectrometry
Mass spectrometry (MS) is an analytical method that determines molecular weight by ionizing analyte molecules and measuring their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z). For peptides, electrospray ionization (ESI-MS) is the most common technique.
In ESI-MS, the peptide solution is sprayed through a charged needle, producing multiply charged ions. A peptide with molecular weight 1419 Da might produce [M+H]+ at m/z 1420, [M+2H]2+ at m/z 710.5, and [M+3H]3+ at m/z 474. The observed mass should match the theoretical molecular weight within ±1 Da.
Mass spectrometry provides orthogonal identity confirmation — HPLC measures purity but cannot distinguish between peptides with similar hydrophobicity. MS confirms you have the correct molecule. MALDI-TOF is an alternative technique sometimes used for larger peptides.
All Healthy Aminos products are for research use only.
Related Products
Related Terms
HPLC
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography — the standard analytical technique for determining peptide purity by separating molecular species based on their chemical properties.
Molecular Weight
The sum of atomic weights of all atoms in a molecule, expressed in Daltons (Da). Used to identify peptides via mass spectrometry.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A document issued by an analytical laboratory reporting the results of identity, purity, and safety testing performed on a specific batch of material.
Purity Percentage
The proportion of target peptide relative to total detected material in an HPLC analysis, expressed as a percentage of chromatographic peak area.
Research Use Only
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. Products sold by Healthy Aminos are intended strictly for in-vitro research and laboratory use. Not for human or animal consumption. Not FDA approved. By purchasing from Healthy Aminos, the buyer acknowledges that these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All products are sold as reference standards and research chemicals only.