Peptide-binding assessment using mass spectrometry as a new screening method for skin sensitization.

Skin sensitization potential of low molecular weight chemicals was assessed by analyzing peptide-conjugate formation. Chemicals were incubated with a peptide, glutathione, and resultant mixtures were analyzed by mass spectrometry. Eighteen chemicals were assessed, and new peaks corresponding to chemical-peptide conjugates were detected for 13 of 14 known sensitizers. Conjugates were not detected for 4 negative chemicals. The method has advantages as a simple screening assay for assessing the sensitization potential of chemicals.