Ceramides Profiling
We offer comprehensive profiling of ceramide species across various biological samples, including plasma, tissues, and cell cultures.
Our services have earned the trust of companies, schools, and organizations globally, and we remain dedicated to maintaining that trust.
Ceramides are lipid molecules that belong to the sphingolipid family and play essential roles in cellular structure and function. They consist of a sphingoid base (such as sphingosine or sphinganine) linked to a fatty acid. Ceramides are crucial for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes, regulating signaling pathways, and influencing processes such as apoptosis, cell growth, and differentiation. In humans, ceramides are particularly abundant in the skin, where they help maintain the skin's barrier and hydration. Additionally, ceramides act as second messengers in cellular signaling, affecting lipid raft properties and cellular responses to stress. Their role in both health and disease underscores the importance of accurate ceramide quantification in biological research.
At Creative Proteomics, we offer comprehensive fatty acid analysis services tailored to meet the unique needs of researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals. Our services cover a wide range of fatty acid profiles and molecular data to facilitate in-depth analysis.
Ceramides Profiling
We offer comprehensive profiling of ceramide species across various biological samples, including plasma, tissues, and cell cultures.
Ceramide Biomarker Discovery
Through advanced lipidomics technologies, we assist in discovering novel ceramide-related biomarkers for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring.
Pathway Analysis
Our analysis provides insight into ceramide-mediated signaling pathways and their involvement in cellular processes such as apoptosis, inflammation, and cellular stress responses.
Structural Characterization
We utilize high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify and characterize ceramide species, including variations in fatty acid composition and sphingoid base structure.
Quantitative Analysis
Accurate and reliable quantification of ceramide species in complex biological matrices, presented in both pmol and mol% concentrations.
Ceramide Species | Description |
---|---|
Ceramide C16:0 | Palmitoyl ceramide (C16:0) – A common ceramide found in the skin. |
Ceramide C18:0 | Stearoyl ceramide (C18:0) – Involved in cell membrane structure. |
Ceramide C18:1 | Oleoyl ceramide (C18:1) – Plays a role in skin hydration and barrier function. |
Ceramide C20:0 | A fatty acid chain of 20 carbon atoms, commonly detected in various tissues. |
Ceramide C24:0 | Lignoceroyl ceramide (C24:0) – Typically found in neural tissues. |
Ceramide 1-phosphate | A phosphorylated form of ceramide involved in cell signaling. |
α-Hydroxyceramide (ACer) | Ceramide with an α-hydroxy fatty acid, relevant for various skin conditions. |
Ceramide d18:1/18:0 | A sphingoid base ceramide with a combination of sphingosine and stearic acid. |
Ceramide d18:1/24:0 | A sphingoid base ceramide with lignoceric acid, important in neuronal tissues. |
Our primary method for ceramide analysis involves high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), specifically utilizing the Q Exactive Orbitrap system.
Q Exactive Orbitrap: This mass spectrometer offers an exceptional resolution of up to 280,000, providing detailed information about ceramide species even in complex biological samples. The system is equipped with both positive and negative ion modes, allowing for comprehensive lipidomics analysis.
Thermo Fisher Q Exactive (Figure from Thermo Fisher)
Workflow of Lipidome Data Analysis
Creative Proteomics provides a comprehensive ceramide analysis with clear, actionable results:
For deeper insights, we also provide:
This all-in-one report ensures you get the key data and insights for your ceramide research.
Explore our Lipidomics Solutions brochure to learn more about our comprehensive lipidomics analysis platform.
Cosmetic Industry
Ceramide quantification supports the development of skincare products targeting barrier repair, anti-aging, and hydration, helping brands optimize formulations for various skin needs.
Pharmaceutical Research
Evaluating ceramide-targeting drugs in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders.
Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology
Supporting metabolic engineering, gene therapy, and synthetic biology by modulating lipid metabolism.
Neuroscience
Studying neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's by investigating their role in neuroinflammation and cell death.
Environmental Toxicology
Assessing cellular responses to environmental toxins and pollutants.
Agricultural and Plant Science
Ceramide profiling enhances understanding of plant stress responses, improving crop resilience and stress tolerance.
Sample Type | Requirement | Volume/Amount | Condition |
---|---|---|---|
Biological Sample | Tissue, blood, plasma, or cell culture | 50-100 mg tissue / 200-500 µL plasma | Fresh or frozen, stored at -80°C |
Skin Samples | Skin biopsies or stratum corneum | 50-100 mg | Fresh or frozen, stored at -80°C |
Cell Lysates | Cells harvested from culture | 1-10 million cells | Stored at -80°C or immediately processed |
Plant Samples | Leaves, stems, roots | 50-100 mg | Fresh or frozen, stored at -80°C |
Environmental Samples | Environmental tissue (e.g., soil, plant matter) | 50-100 mg | Fresh or frozen, stored at -80°C |
Extracted Lipids | Lipid extract in appropriate solvent (e.g., chloroform, methanol) | 50-100 µL lipid extract | Stored at -20°C or -80°C |
What is the sensitivity of ceramide quantification using your methods?
Our ceramide quantification services are highly sensitive, with the ability to detect ceramide species at concentrations as low as 0.1 pmol. This ensures accurate measurements even in complex biological matrices, where ceramides are present at trace levels. Our high-resolution mass spectrometry ensures the precise identification and quantification of ceramides, minimizing the risk of false positives or missed species.
Can I analyze both common and rare ceramide species?
Yes, our analysis can detect both common and rare ceramide species, including those with modifications such as hydroxylation or unusual fatty acid chains. We cover over 50 ceramide species, from the most abundant ones like C16:0 and C18:0 to rarer forms such as ceramide C24:0 and α-hydroxyceramides. Our untargeted lipidomics approach allows for comprehensive profiling, including the identification of novel ceramides.
How do you ensure the accuracy and reliability of the ceramide quantification results?
We employ rigorous quality control (QC) measures at each step of the analysis process. All samples undergo internal standard spiking to monitor extraction efficiency and minimize sample variation. The results are cross-checked with multiple analyses for consistency. Additionally, we use high-resolution mass spectrometry with a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 1000, ensuring precise and reproducible quantification.
How long does it take to receive the results from ceramide quantification analysis?
The turnaround time for ceramide quantification analysis is typically between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity and scope of the analysis. Most projects are completed within this time frame, with 95% of results delivered on time. We provide regular updates throughout the process to keep you informed of the progress.
Can you quantify ceramides in different matrices like skin, plasma, and tissues simultaneously?
Yes, we are capable of analyzing ceramide levels in multiple types of biological matrices within a single study. We can analyze samples such as plasma, tissues, and skin biopsies concurrently, providing a comprehensive overview of ceramide distribution and levels across different biological compartments. This is particularly useful for comparative studies or research on ceramide-related pathologies.
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