Chemistry related
to hydrogen/deuterium exchange–mass spectrometry
(HDX–MS) for the analysis of proteins is described. First,
the HDX rates of various functional groups in proteins are explained
by reviewing the observed rates described in the literature, followed
by estimating rates of all types of heteroatom hydrogens in proteins
using proton transfer theory and the pK
a values. The estimated HDX rates match well with the respective observed
rates for most functional groups, with the exception of indole and
amide groups. The discrepancies between the observed and estimated
HDX rates for these groups are explained by the reaction mechanisms.
Second, the factors that affect the HDX rates of backbone amide hydrogen,
including side chain, N- and C-terminals, pH, temperature, organic
solvent, and isotopes, are discussed. These factors are important
for the proper design of exchange reactions and downstream process
as well as the analysis and interpretation of HDX–MS data.