Maximizing Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness in iTRAQ Mass Spectrometry Analysis

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In summary, the conversation discusses the search for affordable iTRAQ facilities and prices, with Penn State currently offering the cheapest option at $550 per sample. The possibility of finding cheaper alternatives is also mentioned, but it is unlikely. The conversation also addresses the freezing and storage of iTRAQ samples, noting that it is possible to store them for an extended period of time while collecting replicates, but caution must be taken to follow proper protocols for preservation.
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gravenewworld
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I've been looking around for iTRAQ facilities and prices, and so far Penn State seems to be the cheapest at $550 per sample. Does anyone else know of any place that will do it for cheaper or is this as good as it will get?

Also, if anyone has had experience prepping iTRAQ samples, can they be frozen down and kept for an extended period of time while I collect biological and technical replicates to throw into the same sample? Protocols that I've read don't seem to mention about pausing sample collection while different biological samples are grown/collected.
 
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Unfortunately, it looks like $550 per sample is about as low as you're going to get for iTRAQ services. There are a few other places that offer similar prices, such as UC Davis and the University of Illinois at Chicago. In terms of freezing down and storing your samples, that is definitely possible. Many protocols suggest pre-treating samples before freezing them down to preserve the integrity of the samples. However, it is also important to note that frozen samples need to be kept at -20°C or below for optimal preservation.
 
  • #3
Unfortunately, it's difficult to find cheaper iTRAQ facilities than the one offered by Penn State. It may be possible to find some cheaper options at universities or small companies, but it's unlikely that you will find anything significantly cheaper than $550 per sample. Regarding prepping iTRAQ samples, it is possible to freeze down and store them for an extended period of time while collecting biological and technical replicates. Depending on the type of sample, you may need to use a specific protocol for freezing and storing. Make sure to consult the manufacturer's instructions for the best storage conditions.
 

Related to Maximizing Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness in iTRAQ Mass Spectrometry Analysis

1. What is ITRAQ mass spectrometry?

ITRAQ (Isobaric Tags for Relative and Absolute Quantitation) mass spectrometry is a technique used in proteomics to quantify and identify proteins in a sample. It involves labeling proteins with isobaric tags, which allows for multiple samples to be analyzed simultaneously in a single experiment.

2. How does ITRAQ mass spectrometry work?

In ITRAQ mass spectrometry, proteins are first extracted from a sample and then digested into smaller peptides. These peptides are labeled with isobaric tags, which have different mass-to-charge ratios but the same overall mass. The labeled peptides are then combined and analyzed using a mass spectrometer, which separates the peptides based on their mass-to-charge ratios and measures their abundance.

3. What are the advantages of using ITRAQ mass spectrometry?

ITRAQ mass spectrometry offers several advantages over other proteomic techniques. It allows for the identification and quantification of a large number of proteins in a single experiment, making it more efficient and cost-effective. It also has high sensitivity and accuracy, allowing for the detection of low-abundance proteins. Additionally, ITRAQ can be used with a wide range of sample types, including tissue, cells, and bodily fluids.

4. What are the limitations of ITRAQ mass spectrometry?

One of the limitations of ITRAQ mass spectrometry is that it requires specialized equipment and expertise to perform. It also has a limited dynamic range, meaning that it may not be able to accurately quantify highly abundant proteins. Additionally, the isobaric tags used in ITRAQ may have different labeling efficiencies, leading to variability in the measurements.

5. How is data analyzed in ITRAQ mass spectrometry?

The data from ITRAQ mass spectrometry experiments is typically analyzed using specialized software. This software compares the mass spectra from different samples and calculates the relative abundance of each protein. It also performs statistical analysis to determine the significance of any differences in protein expression between samples. The final result is a list of identified and quantified proteins, which can then be further analyzed for biological insights.

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