In the realm of biological and environmental research, accurate species identification is paramount. Whether studying biodiversity, monitoring ecosystems, or ensuring food safety, precise identification underpins informed decision-making and effective conservation efforts. Traditional methods, while valuable, often face limitations in terms of resolution, speed, and scalability. To address these challenges, CD BioSciences offers cutting-edge species identification services using MassARRAY technology, a powerful tool revolutionizing how we identify and differentiate species.
Fig 1. The Mass Array System for Targeted SNP Genotyping (Justine A., 2016)
Service Overview
Our company provides comprehensive species identification services based on the MassARRAY platform. This advanced technology enables rapid, accurate, and cost-effective identification of a wide range of species, from microorganisms to complex eukaryotes. Our services cater to diverse needs, including:
- Microbial identification: Accurate identification of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in various samples, such as environmental isolates, clinical specimens, and industrial cultures.
- Environmental monitoring: Detection and identification of species in complex environmental samples like soil, water, and air, aiding in biodiversity assessments, ecosystem monitoring, and conservation efforts.
- Food safety: Identification of pathogens and contaminants in food products, ensuring consumer safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Clinical diagnostics: Identification of disease-causing organisms in clinical samples, enabling rapid and accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.
Technological Principles
MassARRAY technology, also known as matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), is a sophisticated analytical technique that measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. In the context of species identification, the technology focuses on analyzing specific DNA fragments, known as genetic markers, that are unique to different species.
The process involves several key steps:
- DNA extraction: High-quality DNA is extracted from the sample material using standardized protocols.
- PCR amplification: Specific regions of the extracted DNA, containing the species-specific genetic markers, are amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This step generates millions of copies of the target DNA fragments.
- Single-base extension: A single-base extension reaction is performed using primers designed to bind adjacent to the species-specific markers. Each primer is extended by a single base that is specific to the species being targeted. This reaction creates a unique mass signature for each species.
- Mass spectrometry: The extension products are then analyzed using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. This technique measures the mass of the extension products, which differs depending on the base that was added. The resulting mass spectrum provides a distinct fingerprint for each species.
- Species identification: The mass spectrum generated is compared to a comprehensive database of known species. The species in the sample is identified based on the mass of the extension products and their corresponding base.
Technical Features
MassARRAY technology offers several advantages that make it a superior choice for species identification:
- High sensitivity: The technique can detect even minute amounts of DNA, making it ideal for analyzing complex environmental samples or degraded DNA.
- High specificity: MassARRAY can differentiate between closely related species, even those with minor genetic variations.
- Multiplexing capability: The technology allows for simultaneous identification of multiple species in a single assay, saving time and resources.
- Fast and efficient: MassARRAY can process large numbers of samples quickly, making it suitable for high-throughput applications.
- Cost-effective: The technology offers a cost-effective solution for large-scale species identification projects.
Technology Classification
- PCR-based MassARRAY: This approach utilizes PCR to amplify specific DNA fragments before mass spectrometry analysis. It is widely used for species identification, genotyping, and mutation detection.
- RNA-based MassARRAY: This method focuses on analyzing RNA molecules, providing insights into gene expression and regulatory mechanisms. It is used in applications such as transcriptome profiling and microRNA analysis.
Applications of Anaerobic Degradation Technology
- Microbial identification: Identifying bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in various samples, such as environmental isolates, clinical specimens, and industrial cultures.
- Environmental monitoring: Detecting and identifying species in complex environmental samples like soil, water, and air, aiding in biodiversity assessments, ecosystem monitoring, and conservation efforts.
- Food safety: Identification of pathogens and contaminants in food products, ensuring consumer safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Clinical diagnostics: Identification of disease-causing organisms in clinical samples, enabling rapid and accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.
- Agriculture: Characterizing plant varieties, identifying pathogens, and monitoring crop health.
- Forensic science: Analyzing DNA evidence for human identification and criminal investigations.
Environmental Benefits
- Reduced reliance on traditional methods: Traditional methods often involve time-consuming and resource-intensive culturing techniques. MassARRAY reduces the need for such methods, minimizing waste generation and energy consumption.
- Enhanced monitoring capabilities: The technology enables rapid and accurate identification of species in environmental samples, facilitating timely detection of invasive species, pollution, and other environmental threats.
- Improved conservation efforts: By providing precise species identification, MassARRAY supports effective conservation strategies and biodiversity management.
Our Services
Our bio-environmental company specializes in providing cutting-edge mass array method services for species identification. Utilizing the Massarray platform, we offer a comprehensive suite of services that leverage the power of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for accurate and efficient genetic analysis. Our services are designed to meet the needs of various sectors, including environmental monitoring, agriculture, and biological research:
- Genotyping and Mutation Detection: We provide high-precision genotyping services to identify genetic variations, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions, deletions, and translocations.
- Ultrasensitive Detection: Our platform is capable of detecting genetic markers with high sensitivity, even at low allele frequencies, making it ideal for rare species identification.
- Methylation Analysis: We offer DNA methylation analysis to study epigenetic changes that can be crucial for species differentiation.
- Variety Identification: Our services include the identification of plant and animal varieties, contributing to precision agriculture and biodiversity conservation.
- Functional Panel Customization: We design and implement customized SNP panels tailored to specific research or diagnostic needs.
- Pharmacogenomics Research: Our platform supports pharmacogenomics studies by identifying genetic variations that influence drug response.
- Biomarker Validation: We validate biomarkers for use in environmental and biological monitoring, contributing to the development of diagnostic tools.
Distinctive Service Features
- Reliable and Accurate: Our method combines PCR with mass spectrometry, offering a classic and simple principle with stable and sensitive instrumentation, ensuring high-quality test standards.
- High Sample Throughput: We can perform multiple detections on a single chip, with the capacity to analyze up to 100,000 genotypes per day, making our service highly efficient.
- Flexibility: Unlike NGS, which requires a minimum sample number for full data utilization, MassARRAY does not have such restrictions, allowing for quick and easy modification of existing panels.
- Low Cost per SNP: Our cost-effective service reduces the cost per SNP analysis, making it an economical choice for large-scale genetic studies.
Contact Us
Our mass array method services provide a reliable, accurate, and efficient solution for species identification. With our advanced technology and comprehensive service offerings, we are well-positioned to meet the genetic analysis needs of the bio-environmental sector. For more information or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact us. We look forward to partnering with you in your quest for genetic insights.
How to Place an Order
Reference
- Justine A., Benjamin O., et al. "The MassARRAY System for Targeted SNP Genotyping" Methods in Molecular Biology 2016, 08:77-94.
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.
Mass Array Method
