Proteomic approaches to analyze protein tyrosine nitration.

Abstract Significance: The conversion of protein-bound Tyr residues to 3-nitrotyrosine (3NY) can occur during nitrative stress and has been correlated to aging and many disease states. Proteomic analysis of this post-translational modification, using mass spectrometry-based techniques, is crucial for understanding its potential role in pathological and physiological processes. Recent Advances: To overcome some of the disadvantages inherent to well-established nitroproteomic methods using anti-3NY antibodies and gel-based separations, methods involving multidimensional chromatography, precursor ion scanning, and/or chemical derivatization have emerged for both identification and quantitation of protein nitration sites. A few of these methods have successfully detected endogenous 3NY modifications from biological samples. Critical Issues: While model systems often show promising results, identification of endogenous 3NY modifications remains largely elusive. The frequently low abundance of nitrated proteins...