Mass Spectroscopy Profiling of Histone Modifications

Mass spectrometry (MS) has become the gold-standard technology for unbiased, comprehensive analysis of post-translational modifications (PTMs) on histones, offering unparalleled precision and depth. CD BioSciences provides expert mass spectrometry profiling services specifically for histone modifications, enabling you to decode the complex epigenetic signatures that regulate chromatin function and cellular identity.

Basic Principles of Mass Spectrometry

Mass spectrometry is an analytical technique that measures the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of ions to identify and quantify molecules with high accuracy and sensitivity. In histone PTM analysis, proteins are enzymatically digested into peptides, which are then ionized and separated based on their m/z in a mass analyzer. Tandem MS (MS/MS) fragments selected peptides, generating spectra that reveal amino acid sequences and the specific sites and types of modifications (e.g., +42 Da for acetylation, +14 Da for methylation). This approach allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple PTMs—including low-abundance and novel modifications—without the need for prior antibodies or assumptions, making it indispensable for mapping the complete "histone code" and understanding its dynamic regulation.

Fig.1 A mass spectrometry-based assay using metabolic labeling to rapidly monitor chromatin accessibility of modified histone proteins. (Sidoli S, et al., 2019)

Features of Mass Spectrometry in Histone PTM Analysis

1. High Sensitivity and Dynamic Range: Capable of detecting low-abundance modifications (e.g., succinylation, O-GlcNAcylation) even in complex biological samples.
2. Unbiased Discovery: Enables global, untargeted profiling to identify novel or unexpected PTMs without predefined targets.
3. Precise Quantification: Supports both relative and absolute quantification of modification stoichiometry, essential for comparing conditions.
4. Multiplexing Capability: Allows simultaneous analysis of multiple modification types (e.g., acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation) from a single sample.
5. High Specificity and Accuracy: Provides unambiguous site localization and distinction between isobaric modifications (e.g., trimethylation vs. acetylation).

Our Services

Mass spectrometry provides a powerful, versatile platform for epigenetic research by integrating several key features:

As a leading provider of epigenetic research services, CD BioSciences focuses on providing end-to-end mass spectrometry analysis services for the identification and quantification of histone PTMs. We combine advanced instrumentation, optimized histone-specific workflows, and expert bioinformatics to deliver robust, publication-ready data. Our services are designed to help you overcome the technical challenges of PTM analysis, from accurate site mapping to understanding the functional interplay between different modifications in your biological system.

One-stop Mass Spectrometry Solution for Histone Modification Analysis

We combine advanced high-resolution LC-MS/MS instrumentation with specialized histone-specific workflows—including optimized sample preparation, multiple fragmentation techniques (HCD/ETD/EThcD), and dedicated bioinformatics pipelines—to deliver unparalleled sensitivity, accuracy, and depth in PTM detection and quantification. This enables precise mapping of both canonical and novel modifications, even at low stoichiometry, providing robust data to decode the complex epigenetic landscape.

Diversified PTM Analysis

1. Histone Lysine/Arginine Methylation Analysis
2. Histone Lysine Acetylation Analysis
3. Histone Lysine Acylation Analysis
4. Histone Lysine Crotonylation Analysis
5. Histone Lysine Lactylation Analysis
6. Histone Lysine Formylation Analysis

1. Histone Lysine Ubiquitination Analysis
2. Histone Lysine SUMOylation Analysis
3. Histone Lysine Succinylation Analysis
4. Histone Serine/Threonine/Tyrosine Phosphorylation Analysis
5. Histone Arginine Citrullination Analysis
6. Histone Serine/Threonine O-GlcNAcylation Analysis

Customized Profiling Services

1. Global Histone PTM Profiling: Untargeted discovery and comprehensive mapping of modification sites across all core histones and variants.
2. Targeted Quantification: Precise relative or absolute quantification of specific PTMs of interest with high accuracy and sensitivity.
3. Time-Resolved Dynamic Analysis: Monitoring PTM kinetics and dynamics over time in response to stimuli, cellular differentiation, or pharmacological treatment.
4. Integrated Multi-PTM Analysis: Investigating crosstalk, co-occurrence, and competitive relationships between different modification types on the same or neighboring residues.
5. Spatial Omics Integration Solution: Combining high-resolution mass spectrometry with advanced imaging techniques (e.g., MALDI-IMS) to map PTM distributions across tissue architectures and within subcellular compartments.
6. Single-Cell Modification Analysis: Applying specialized nano-scale workflows (e.g., nanoPOTS-SCoPE-MS) to profile histone PTMs at single-cell resolution, enabling the study of epigenetic heterogeneity in complex populations.

Workflow of Mass Spectroscopy Profiling Service

Applications

1. Fundamental Epigenetics: Deciphering the histone code and its role in transcription, DNA repair, and replication.
2. Disease Mechanisms: Identifying PTM dysregulation in cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic diseases, and autoimmune conditions.
3. Development & Stem Cell Biology: Mapping epigenetic dynamics during differentiation and cellular reprogramming.
4. Drug Discovery & Toxicology: Evaluating the effects of compounds, toxins, or therapies on the epigenetic landscape.

Our Advantages

1. Expertise in Histone-Specific Workflows: Deep knowledge in sample preparation tailored for histone PTMs to maximize recovery and accuracy.
2. Cutting-Edge Technology Platform: Access to the latest high-resolution mass spectrometers and fragmentation methods.
3. Comprehensive Data Analysis: Advanced bioinformatics support for complex PTM data interpretation and integration.
4. End-to-End Project Support: Guidance from experimental design through to final data interpretation by our epigenetics specialists.

At CD BioSciences, we provide a complete, highly customizable mass spectrometry profiling solution for the identification and quantification of histone modifications. From routine analysis of common PTMs to the discovery and quantification of rare modifications, our tailored services are designed to meet the specific needs of your research project. We are committed to delivering data of the highest quality and biological relevance to accelerate your discoveries in chromatin biology and beyond. Contact us to discuss how we can support your next epigenetic research endeavor.

Reference

1. Sidoli S, Lopes M, Lund P J, et al. A mass spectrometry-based assay using metabolic labeling to rapidly monitor chromatin accessibility of modified histone proteins[J]. Scientific reports, 2019, 9(1): 13613.