Probing protein dynamics and function under native and mildly denaturing conditions with hydrogen exchange and mass spectrometry

A combination of hydrogen exchange and mass spectrometry emerged in recent years as a powerful experimental tool capable of probing both structural and dynamic features of proteins. Although its concept is very simple, the interpretation of experimental data is not always straightforward, as a combination of chemical reactions (isotope exchange) and dynamic processes within protein molecules give rise to convoluted exchange patterns. This paper provides a historical background of this technique, candid assessment of its current state and limitations and a discussion of promising recent developments that can result in tremendous improvements and a dramatic expansion of the scope of its applications.