Time-resolved mass spectrometry

Mass spectrometry (MS) offers advantages over conventional spectroscopic assays because it enables structural determination of reactants while preserving temporal resolution. The ability to detect short-lived reaction intermediates or labile metabolites makes time-resolved MS (TRMS) measurements an enabling tool for studies of chemical reactions, chemical kinetics and bio-chemical dynamics. High temporal resolution requires careful optimization of the interface, which would enable quenching of the chemical process, ionization and rapid transfer of the analytes into the mass analyzer.We review recent advances in TRMS, and outline the prospects for future developments and applications.

► Mass spectrometry determines reactant structure while preserving temporal resolution.
► High temporal resolution requires careful optimization of the interface.
► Time-resolved mass spectrometry has already found a number of applications.
► Studies include reaction kinetics and mechanism, and protein folding.
► They target (bio)chemical processes in vitro and in vivo.