Can α- and β-Alanine Containing Peptides Be Distinguished Based on the CID Spectra of Their Protonated Ions?

Abstract

The fragmentation reactions of isomeric dipeptides containing α- and β-alanine residues (αAla-αAla, αAla-βAla, βAla-αAla, and βAla-βAla) were studied using a combination of low-energy and energy resolved collision induced dissociation (CID). Each dipeptide gave a series of different fragment ions, allowing for differentiation. For example, peptides containing an N-terminal β-Ala residue yield a diagnostic imine loss, while lactam ions at m/z 72 are unique to peptides containing β-Ala residues. In addition, MS3 experiments were performed. Structure-specific fragmentation reactions were observed for y1 ions, which help identify the C-terminal residue. The MS3 spectra of the b2 ions are differe..