In peptide research, identifying unknown peptides is a key step in both discovery and quality control. LCMS testing of peptides—Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry—has become the top method for this purpose. Whether you’re working on new peptide therapeutics, biosimilars, or degradation studies, LCMS testing of peptides offers unmatched detection ability and structural understanding. At ResolveMass Laboratories Inc., we specialize in the advanced characterization of peptides using LCMS, supporting pharmaceutical, academic, and biotech clients across Canada and beyond.
What Is LCMS Testing of Peptides?
LCMS testing of peptides combines the separating ability of Liquid Chromatography (LC) with the identification and quantification strength of Mass Spectrometry (MS). This combination allows accurate analysis of complex peptide mixtures, helping the accurate determination of unknown peptide sequences, post-translational modifications, and impurities.
For detailed insights into the types of techniques we employ, explore our Peptide Characterization Techniques page.
Why Use LCMS for Identifying Unknown Peptides?
1. High Sensitivity and Accuracy
LCMS testing of peptides detects even trace-level peptides and distinguishes closely related species.
2. Sequence Identification
Unknown peptides can be sequenced by reading fragmentation patterns in two step mass spectrometry (MS/MS).
3. Modifications Detection
It identifies post-translational modifications (PTMs), isotopic labeling, or unusual residues.
4. Impurity Profiling
It helps distinguish and measure major and minor peptide impurities. Learn more at our Peptide Impurities Characterization service page.
5. Rapid Turnaround
With advanced instrumentation and skilled experts, ResolveMass delivers validated results quickly—without losing accuracy.
How LCMS Testing of Peptides Works
Step 1: Sample Preparation
The unknown peptide sample is desalted and diluted for LCMS testing.
Step 2: Chromatographic Separation
Liquid chromatography separates peptide components based on hydrophobicity and charge.
Step 3: Mass Spectrometry
Mass spectrometry finds the exact molecular weights. Tandem MS (MS/MS) is used for peptide sequencing.
Step 4: Data Analysis
We use advanced software tools and special databases to interpret fragmentation patterns and rebuild peptide sequences.
Explore our Peptide Characterization Service in Canada for a full list of methodologies.
Real-Time Case Study: LCMS Testing of an Unknown Peptide Impurity
Background:
A pharmaceutical client submitted a GMP-grade peptide therapeutic batch with unexplained bioactivity. They suspected an unknown impurity.
ResolveMass Approach:
- Sample Submitted: 1.5 mg lyophilized peptide
- Method Used: Reverse-phase LC coupled with high-resolution MS/MS
- Time to Result: 48 hours
Findings:
- A minor component (~3.7% of total peak area) showed a mass shift of +14 Da.
- De novo sequencing identified it as a methylated variant of the main peptide.
Outcome:
Client successfully found the problem was caused by a methylation-prone reagent used during synthesis. They revised their protocol accordingly. This resolved the bioactivity inconsistency and enhanced batch purity by 4.2%.
Read more on how we conduct Peptide Sequencing Services.
Applications of LCMS Testing of Peptides
- Identifying degradation products in stability studies
- Verifying peptide synthesis purity
- Sequencing unknown bioactive fragments
- Detecting chemical modifications in therapeutic peptides
- Regulatory documentation for FDA/EMA submissions
How ResolveMass Excels in LCMS Testing of Peptides
ResolveMass Laboratories Inc. is Canada’s trusted lab for advanced LCMS testing of peptides. Here’s what makes us apart:
- State-of-the-Art Instrumentation: Triple quadrupole and Orbitrap platforms
- Expert Analysts: Over 15 years of experience in peptide mass spectrometry
- Custom Reporting: Suitable for regulatory submissions
- End-to-End Services: From sample prep to peptide sequencing
Discover our specialized services like Peptide Sequencing of Semaglutide for complex therapeutic peptides.
Optimize Your Research with LCMS Testing of Peptides
ResolveMass helps scientists clearly find unknown peptides using LCMS. Our services support quicker research, better regulatory compliance, and reduced risk of costly synthesis errors. Visit our Peptide Characterization Service page to learn more.
Still have questions? Contact our team anytime via our Contact Page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is LCMS testing of peptides?
LCMS testing of peptides is an analytical method that combines liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry to analyze, identify, and sequence peptides with high accuracy.
2. Can LCMS identify unknown peptides?
Yes, using two step mass spectrometry (MS/MS), LCMS can directly figure out the sequence unknown peptides and identify any modifications or impurities.
3. How much sample is needed for LCMS testing of peptides?
We usually require 1–2 mg of sample, but we can work with lower quantities depending on the complexity and sensitivity required.
4. What kind of results do I get from LCMS peptide testing?
You receive molecular weight data, chromatographic profiles, MS/MS spectra, impurity breakdown, and full or partial peptide sequences.
5. Is LCMS better than MALDI for peptide testing?
LCMS is usually better for identifying unknown peptides due to higher resolution, better sequencing capabilities, and broader applicability.
6. How fast is your turnaround for LCMS peptide analysis?
Depending on complexity, most results are delivered within 48–72 hours.
7. Do you provide regulatory-compliant reports?
Absolutely. All LCMS testing of peptides performed at ResolveMass comes with documentation suitable for FDA, EMA, and Health Canada submissions.
8. Can LCMS testing detect post-translational modifications?
Yes, our LCMS-MS systems detect PTMs like phosphorylation, methylation, acetylation, and more.
9. How is LCMS used in peptide impurity characterization?
It separates and identifies minor impurities in peptide samples. We use it to quantify known and unknown variants down to 0.1%.
10. Can you help sequence peptide-based drugs like semaglutide?
Yes, check our Peptide Sequencing of Semaglutide page for details on how we sequence modified and long-chain peptides.
Ready to Get Started?
Submit your sample today or speak directly to our team. For consultations, quotations, or more info:
📩 Contact us now
📩 Schedule a call
📩 Request a quotation
Related Services:
🔗 Peptide Characterization in Canada
🔗 Peptide Impurity Analysis
🔗 Peptide Sequencing
🔗 Peptide Analysis Techniques
🔗 Peptide Sequencing of Semaglutide
References:
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024022400
