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Poster Presentations
Day 2, June 23（Mon.）
Room P (Maesato East, Foyer, Ocean Wing)
- 2P-PM-37
Characterization of Qβ Virus-Like Particles Using Orbitrap-Based Charge Detection Mass Spectrometry (CDMS) Approaches
(1NCKU CHEM, 2NCKU BME, 3Thermo Fisher Scientific)
oHsi-Wen Wang1, Ying-Ting Chiou1, Hung-Wei Yang2, Weijing Liu3, Szu-Hsueh Lai1
Virus-like particles (VLPs) are nanoscale assemblies that mimic virions but lack genetic material. Their non-infectious nature and ability to bind specific antigens make them highly valuable for biomedical applications. In this study, we characterize Qβ VLPs derived from the single-stranded RNA bacteriophage Qβ coat proteins (CPs). The coat proteins were expressed in E. coli and then self-assembled to VLPs as reported literature. Qβ VLPs typically assemble into T=3 icosahedral structures but can also adopt oblate or prolate morphologies under certain conditions, such as coat protein overexpression or variations in production techniques, making structural heterogeneity challenging to identify. Additionally, each morphology may differ in RNA encapsulation ratio, structural rigidity, and thermal stability. Charge-detection mass spectrometry (CDMS) is a single-particle mass analysis technique that simultaneously measures the mass-to-charge ratio and charge. Here, we employ Orbitrap-based CDMS to assess the structural heterogeneity and physicochemical stability of Qβ VLPs. We have preliminarily characterized mega-Dalton Qβ VLPs, revealing their structural diversity and stability. Additionally, we compare various charge determination methods, including the charge conversion strategy using averaged peak intensity and Thermo Scientific's Direct Mass Technology™. Further investigations into RNA encapsulation ratio, structural rigidity, thermal stability, and pH resistance will also be explored for the characterization.