Summary
The function of proteins largely depends on their interactions, which depends on their structure. Mass spectrometry based proteomics has created a plethora of information about protein-protein interaction networks. However, such data does not generate information on exact protein complex composition, structure and dynamics. New mass spectrometry based technologies especially targeted at the analysis of these latter features are surfacing allowing applications for investigating intact supramolecular protein (sub)-complexes. The analysis of intact non-covalently bound protein assemblies has been termed native mass spectrometry. In this part of the program native mass spectrometry will be further developed and applied to a number of complex systems with high molecular weights (i.e. a few million Da). Direct links with NPC II projects focused on for instance the proteasome and transcription complexes are foreseen. Moreover, collaborations with industry on the analysis of protein-interactions by macromolecular mass spectrometry are envisaged, directly leading to valorization potential.