Cross-linking/mass spectrometry at the crossroads

• DOI: 10.1007/s00216-020-02700-x
• Publication Date: 2020-05-29T04:08:02Z
• Authors: Lolita Piersimoni; Andrea Sinz
• Keywords: Proteome

Abstract Cross-linking/mass spectrometry (XL-MS) has come a long way. Originally, XL-MS was used to study relatively small, purified proteins. Meanwhile, it is employed investigate protein-protein interactions on proteome-wide level, giving snapshots of cellular processes. Currently, at the intersection multitude workflows and impact this technique in addressing specific biological questions steadily growing. This article intended give bird’s-eye view current status XL-MS, benefits using MS-cleavable cross-linkers, challenges posed future development powerful technology. We also illustrate how can deliver valuable structural insights into protein complexes when combination with other techniques, such as electron microscopy.