Orbitrap Proteomics

Orbitrap proteomics is a method that systematically analyzes the proteome using Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry. This advanced Fourier transform mass analyzer is notable in proteomics research for its exceptional resolution, accuracy, and sensitivity. Unlike traditional quadrupole or time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometers, Orbitrap technology can accurately measure the mass of proteins and peptides over a broad dynamic range with high quantitative precision, thus enhancing the reliability of proteomics data. Orbitrap proteomics excels in data acquisition, allowing for the detection of low-abundance proteins and post-translational modifications in a single analysis, resulting in a detailed proteomic profile. Its applications span basic biology, medical research, clinical diagnostics, and drug development. In basic research, it explores protein expression dynamics, the regulation of signaling pathways, and protein-protein interaction networks. In disease research, Orbitrap proteomics precisely identifies disease-associated proteins, supporting biomarker discovery and precision medicine. Specifically, in cancer research, it assists in tumor proteome analysis to identify key driver proteins, antigens, and potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, in drug development, this technology aids in drug target validation, elucidating mechanisms of action, and assessing efficacy and toxicity, providing molecular-level insights for new drug development.

 

The high-resolution capability of Orbitrap proteomics stems from its unique mass analysis principle. Orbitrap mass spectrometers use an electrostatic field to trap ions, which oscillate along a stable trajectory. The Fourier transform is then applied to determine their oscillation frequencies, calculating precise mass-to-charge ratios (m/z). This approach avoids the mass drift issues of traditional mass analyzers and quickly provides accurate data, ensuring precise protein identification and quantification. For quantitative proteomics, Orbitrap technology is often paired with quantitative methods such as TMT, SILAC, and label-free quantification to obtain precise protein expression data.

 

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are critical for regulating protein functions, and Orbitrap proteomics demonstrates outstanding capabilities in analyzing PTMs. Modifications like phosphorylation, acetylation, glycosylation, and ubiquitination are crucial in signal transduction, gene regulation, and disease development. The superior resolution and mass accuracy of Orbitrap technology allow effective separation and identification of peptides with various modification states, enabling in-depth studies of how modifications affect protein function.

 

Orbitrap proteomics covers a wide dynamic range, detecting both high- and low-abundance proteins, thus improving the identification of low-abundance regulatory proteins. Traditional methods often struggle with interference from high-abundance proteins when detecting low-abundance proteins. Orbitrap’s enhanced sensitivity mitigates this issue, ensuring accurate detection of weak-signal proteins. This is particularly valuable in proteomics studies of biological fluids like blood and cerebrospinal fluid, where it captures trace disease-related proteins, aiding early clinical diagnosis.

 

In protein interaction studies, Orbitrap proteomics, combined with affinity purification mass spectrometry (AP-MS) and cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS), can elucidate the composition, interaction networks, and dynamic changes of protein complexes.

 

MtoZ Biolabs offers high-precision, high-throughput proteomics analysis services to research institutions, hospitals, and biopharmaceutical companies. Our services include protein identification, quantitative proteomics, post-translational modification research, and protein interaction network analysis, with customized solutions tailored to client needs.

 

MtoZ Biolabs, an integrated chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS) services provider.