Principles and applications of multidimensional protein identification technology.

Multidimensional chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry is an emerging technique for the analysis of proteomes and is rapidly being implemented by many researchers for proteomic analysis. In this technology profile, a particular proteomic approach known as multidimensional protein identification technology (MudPIT) is discussed. In MudPIT, a biphasic microcapillary column is packed with high-performance liquid chromatography grade reversed phase and strong cation exchange packing materials, loaded with a complex peptide mixture and placed in line with quaternary high-performance liquid chromatography and a tandem mass spectrometer. MudPIT has the capability to analyze highly complex proteomic mixtures such as whole proteomes, organelles and protein complexes.