Amgen Inc.
METHODS FOR THE PREPARATION OF TRYPSIN-RESISTANT POLYPEPTIDES FOR MASS SPECTROMETRIC ANALYSIS

Abstract:

The disclosed methods are directed to preparing and detecting polypeptides using neutrophil elastase, such as human neutrophil elastase. The polypeptides are optionally denatured, reduced, and/or alkylated before being subjected to a first digestion. A second digestion comprises the use of neutrophil elastase, such as human neutrophil elastase. The prepared fragments are then analyzed chromatographically, electrophoretically, or spectrometrically, or a combination of these methods. The methods are especially useful for the preparation of therapeutic polypeptides for analysis, especially those that are not easily cleaved, such as some bi-specific T-cell engager (BiTE.RTM.) molecules.