Spatial Post-Translational Modification Mapping Service

Our Spatial Post-Translational Modification (PTM) Mapping service provides a high-resolution window into the true functional state of the proteome. Moving beyond standard protein abundance, we enable you to visualize how proteins are modified (e.g., phosphorylation, acetylation) and exactly where active signaling occurs within the complex tissue architecture. By mapping these dynamic functional states in situ, we empower drug developers and translational researchers to elucidate drug mechanisms of action, validate novel therapeutic targets, and discover functional biomarkers with unprecedented spatial context.

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What is
Workflow
Platform
Applications
Why choose
FAQs
Sample preparation

What is Spatial PTM Mapping?

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are the "on/off" switches of cellular function. While genomics tells you the blueprint and proteomics tells you the machinery, PTM mapping tells you the activity.

Spatial PTM Mapping utilizes advanced technologies—such as MALDI-MSI (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging) or Antibody-based Multiplexing—to detect specific chemical changes on proteins across a 2D or 3D tissue landscape. This allows for the visualization of localized signaling pathways within tumors, brain regions, or inflamed tissues.

Workflow

From Sample to Insight. We provide a seamless, end-to-end pipeline designed to ensure data integrity and biological relevance.

Spatial PTM Mapping workflow

Our Technology Platform

We utilize a multi-modal approach to suit diverse research needs:

MALDI-TOF/TOF & FT-ICR MSI: For label-free, discovery-based mapping of glycans and small molecule modifications with high mass accuracy.
High-Plex Spatial Proteomics: Using DNA-barcoded antibodies to detect dozens of specific phosphorylated proteins simultaneously at sub-cellular resolution.
Advanced Image Fusion: Proprietary software to overlay molecular heatmaps onto high-resolution histological images.

Key Applications

Oncology: Identifying "active" signaling zones in the tumor microenvironment to predict drug resistance.
Neuroscience: Mapping protein phosphorylation patterns in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
Drug Development: Visualizing the spatial distribution of a drug's effect on target protein modification (Pharmacodynamics).
Immunology: Tracking the activation state of immune cells as they infiltrate specific tissue niches.

Why Choose Us?

Unmatched Sensitivity: Our platform detects low-abundance PTMs that are often missed by standard imaging techniques.
Expert Integration: We don't just provide raw data; we provide biological context, linking molecular shifts to morphological features.
Customization: We develop bespoke protocols for "difficult" modifications or unique tissue types.
Validated Accuracy: Every project includes rigorous internal standards to ensure spatial and chemical fidelity.

FAQs

What is the spatial resolution of this service?

A: Depending on the platform, we offer resolution ranging from 5 μm (sub-cellular) to 50 μm (regional), tailored to your tissue size and goals.

Can you map multiple PTMs at once?

A: Yes. Through multiplexed imaging or sequential MSI runs, we can correlate different modifications (e.g., Glycosylation and Phosphorylation) on the same or adjacent sections.

How do you ensure the PTMs don't degrade during processing?

A: We utilize specialized protease and phosphatase inhibitors during sample prep and maintain strict cold-chain protocols for fresh-frozen materials.

Learn about other Q&A.

Sample Preparation Guidelines

To ensure the highest data quality, please adhere to the following:

Tissue Types: We accept Fresh Frozen (FF), Optimal Cutting Temperature (OCT) embedded, or FFPE tissues. For MALDI-MSI projects, please avoid OCT compound as it interferes with mass spectral ionization. Use CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose) or Gelatin embedding instead. OCT is accepted only for Antibody-based/Immunofluorescence projects.Thickness:

Storage: Frozen samples must be shipped on dry ice and stored at -80°C to prevent PTM degradation (especially for phosphorylation).

Slides: Use conductive slides (ITO) for MSI or adhesive slides for multiplexed imaging as specified during consultation.

NOTE: Please consult with our technical team prior to sample preparation to obtain a detailed protocol.

* For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Our customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Inquiry

From Our Clients

"I recently used their proteomics service for a project analyzing protein interactions in yeast models. The team was very responsive and helped clarify the methodology they employed, which made me feel confident in the results. The data quality was solid, with clear identification of several key proteins involved in our study. Their thorough analysis enabled me to pinpoint specific interactions that I hadn't considered before, which significantly improved the direction of my research. I appreciate their professionalism and support throughout the process."

Sarah Thompson, University of California, Berkeley

"Our lab collaborated with them on a project studying cancer biomarkers. The proteomics analysis provided was detailed and focused, specifically highlighting the differential expression of proteins between healthy and tumor samples. Their clear explanations of the data helped my team understand the biological implications. I also appreciated their willingness to revise the reports based on our feedback, ensuring that we had everything we needed for our publication. This collaborative spirit was invaluable."

Emily Rodriguez, Stanford University

"Our lab worked with them on a project studying the effects of diet on gut microbiota using proteomics. They used a label-free quantification method to analyze proteins in fecal samples before and after dietary intervention. The results showed significant changes in protein expression linked to microbial activity. This was pivotal for our hypothesis about diet-microbiota interactions. The clarity of their data presentation made it easy for our team to integrate these findings into our ongoing research."

Dr. Lisa Wong, University of Toronto

"My experience with Creative Proteomics during the mass spectrometry analysis was excellent. We sent in human saliva and mouse brain tissue samples, which they expertly analyzed using both LC-MS and GC-MS techniques. The results were invaluable, revealing key metabolites in the saliva and identifying biomarkers linked to brain function in the brain tissue."

Dr. Emily Carter, Senior Research Scientist

"The overall service from Creative Proteomics was outstanding. They made the entire process seamless and efficient, allowing us to focus on our research. We worked with leaf and root samples from various Arabidopsis genotypes for targeted metabolomics analysis. Their thorough profiling of primary and secondary metabolites gave us important insights into how the plants respond metabolically to environmental stress."

Dr. Laura Henderson, Plant Physiologist

"We had a pleasant collaboration with Creative Proteomics on mass spectrometry analysis of lipids. They conducted a detailed analysis of lipid species, providing us with important insights into lipid metabolism and its relationship with metabolic syndrome disease states."

Dr. Sarah Mitchell, Research Scientist

Online Inquiry

Please submit a detailed description of your project. We will provide you with a customized project plan to meet your research requests. You can also send emails directly to for inquiries.

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