Structural investigation of marine biomolecules by tandem mass spectrometry

Youssef, Trevena Nabil (2025) Structural investigation of marine biomolecules by tandem mass spectrometry. Doctoral (PhD) thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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	[English] MS Excel XML Document (xlsx) (A2 supplemental material) - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (11MB)

Abstract

A wealth of undiscovered scientific information is held within our oceans. Elucidation of this scientific information will play a leading role in understanding the aqueous environment. This thesis focuses on two main research goals. The first one involves the qualitative and quantitative investigations of the protein composition of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) otoliths. Cod otoliths have been sampled for decades; however, a wealth of information remains to be uncovered. With advancements in novel scientific technologies, we are beginning to probe the physiological and biochemical blueprints of their proteins and biomarker components. This research will help clarify how the aqueous environment influences the full life history of fish. Most importantly, it will contribute to efforts aimed at preserving fish populations for future generations. The detailed study of otolith protein composition is an emerging scientific field that seeks to explain the diverse roles of otolith proteins and their relationships with physiological and biochemical growth functions. The second goal of this thesis involves the structural elucidation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) components from marine Gram-negative bacteria that impact aquaculture ventures. The LPS of bacterial cell walls contains lipid A, which is essential for fish vaccine development and is used as a vaccine adjuvant. Therefore, we will explore the molecular structure of two lipid A molecules, isolated from different Gram-negative marine bacteria belonging to the Vibrionaceae and Aeromonadaceae families.

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