This proposal is aimed at increasing and sustaining students' participation in chemistry at Howard University by enhancing the training facility through acquisition of the PerSeptive MALDI-TOF-MS/MS system. Laboratory experiments that incorporate the use of this state-of-the-art mass spectrometer into the biochemistry, polymer science, and technique of organic laboratories have been designed. At least 60 undergraduate students per semester and 50 graduate students will have hands-on access to the mass spectrometer as part of the routine training and research regimen. This system is capable of protein sequencing and mass spectrometric characterization of peptides, proteins, DNA, RNA, oligosaccharides, glycoproteins, synthetic polymers, triglyceride molecules and vegetable oils. In addition, the instrument will enhance the research activities in the newly established polymer science program, which primarily focused on the syntheses and characterization of biodegradable and biocompatible polymer systems. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a technique used to probe intimate structural details and to obtain the molecular compositions of a vast array of organic, bioorganic, and organometallic molecules. The addition of the technique of electrospray extends the range of MS to protein and nucleic acid molecular weights far beyond any other technique. The use of electrospray ionization in combination with high resolution provides the latest technique available in mass spectrometry. It affords the chemist one of the most powerful tools available for the characterization of compounds. The acquisition of this capability in mass spectrometry is essential for the prosecution of frontier research in many fields of chemistry.
