How many tape strips are required for a robust stratum corneum lipid analysis?
For accurate stratum corneum lipid analysis, we generally recommend combining 3 to 5 consecutive D-Squame or Sebutape strips per site. This provides sufficient biomass to quantify low-abundance ultra-long-chain ceramides while accounting for the depth-dependent gradient of the epidermal barrier.
Can your platforms distinguish between specific ceramide subclasses?
Yes. Our targeted panels utilize optimized LC gradients and specific MS/MS transitions to definitively separate and quantify major subclasses, including EOS, EOP, NP, AP, and AS, based on their sphingoid base and fatty acyl chain configurations.
What is the difference in sample prep between skin surface lipids and biopsies?
Skin surface lipids (SSL) analysis typically utilizes sebum-absorbing tapes or solvent washes, requiring milder extraction focused on non-polar lipids (triglycerides, squalene). Full-thickness biopsies require rigorous mechanical homogenization and strong bi-phasic solvents to release matrix-bound structural lipids.
Are 3D skin equivalents compatible with your lipidomics workflows?
Absolutely. We routinely perform lipidomics on commercial 3D epidermal models (e.g., EpiDerm, SkinEthic). These models are excellent for standardizing the evaluation of topical formulations and transdermal drug delivery.
How do you prevent the loss of highly lipophilic ceramides during extraction?
We utilize modified Bligh-Dyer or Folch extraction protocols incorporating specialized solvent ratios (e.g., chloroform/methanol/water) and elevated temperatures during the extraction phase to ensure the complete solubilization of extremely hydrophobic O-acylceramides.
What is your typical turnaround time for dermatology lipidomics studies?
Turnaround time depends on study design and panel scope. For common targeted panels (e.g., ceramides or SSL composition), typical turnaround is often 2–4 weeks after sample receipt and QC acceptance. Discovery workflows (untargeted lipidomics + identification + statistics) may require additional time depending on cohort size and depth of analysis.
Do you provide data interpretation, pathway analysis, and publication-ready figures?
Yes. In addition to raw files and quantified results, we can provide statistical analysis (e.g., PCA/PLS-DA, volcano plots), lipid-class summaries (ceramide subclasses, CER:CHO:FFA ratios), and pathway/feature interpretation aligned to barrier function or inflammatory remodeling. Upon request, we also deliver publication-ready visualizations and a concise methods summary to support manuscript preparation.
Can lipidomics detect changes induced by topical cosmetics and emollients?
Yes, dermatology lipidomics is highly sensitive to exogenous lipid application. We can track the penetration of formulation lipids (like synthetic ceramides or plant sterols) and monitor how they influence the endogenous biosynthesis of host barrier lipids.
What is the dynamic range for detecting trace inflammatory lipids within a high-sebum background?
Our high-end triple quadrupole instruments provide a dynamic range exceeding 5 to 6 orders of magnitude. For specific inflammatory skin disease lipidomics studies, we may use solid-phase extraction (SPE) to remove abundant triglycerides before quantifying trace oxylipins.
Do you provide absolute molar ratios for Ceramides, Cholesterol, and FFAs?
Yes. By utilizing stable isotope-labeled internal standards across our panels, we provide true absolute concentrations, allowing researchers to calculate the critical equimolar ratios governing barrier function.
