Researchers engineered a new detergent capable of breaking chemical bonds in proteins when exposed to ultraviolet light. The “photocleavable” molecule would allow scientists to study hard-to-reach proteins in cell membranes—which hold the most potential as new drug targets—using a powerful analytical technique called mass spectrometry.
The detergent—named Azo—drives the protein into a water-based solution, a critical step that has blocked scientists for years from studying membrane-bound proteins. The protein molecules are left behind when UV light breaks the chemical bond prior to mass spectrometry analysis. Unlike standard detergents, Azo does not interfere with mass spectrometry analysis.
The discovery has the potential to provide both biological and therapeutic insights into health and disease. The study, partly funded by NHLBI, appeared in the journal Nature Methods.