Identification of protein-bound carbohydrates by mass spectrometry

This review outlines the use of modern methods of mass spectrometry, mainly based on electrospray ionization and matrix-assisted based desorption/ioni zation, for the identification of protein-bound carbohydrates. The techniqu es are briefly described together with methods for glycan release and purif ication prior to mass spectrometry. fragmentation of glycans, produced unde r various conditions, is described in the context of obtaining structural i nformation at the sensitivity required for proteomic work.