Selenylation Analysis Service
Protein selenylation is a specialized modification involving the covalent incorporation of selenium atoms into protein residues. This modification plays a critical role in modulating protein structure, catalytic function, and redox balance. MtoZ Biolabs provides an integrated Selenylation Analysis Service using HPLC separation, high-resolution mass spectrometry, biochemical labeling strategies, and optional X-ray crystallography for structural validation.
1. Target Protein Selenylation Analysis
For studies centered on a specific protein, MtoZ Biolabs offers targeted selenylation analysis combining selective labeling and LC–MS/MS to pinpoint selenium-modified residues and quantify modification levels. When relevant, X-ray crystallography can be incorporated to confirm modification sites and assess structural effects at atomic resolution.
2. Selenylation Proteomics
For proteome-wide investigations, our selenylation proteomics workflow integrates high-throughput sample preparation, HPLC–MS/MS acquisition, and specialized bioinformatics to map selenium incorporation across complex biological samples. This approach enables global profiling, comparative analysis, and pathway interpretation of selenylation events.
What is Selenylation?
Selenylation is a covalent modification in which selenium atoms are incorporated into specific amino acid residues, expanding the functional landscape of proteins. Unlike general oxidation events, selenylation typically occurs on reactive side chains such as cysteine and selenocysteine, where selenium can form stable or reversible bonds that regulate protein activity. These selenylation sites often act as redox-sensitive switches, influencing protein stability, catalytic efficiency, and intermolecular interactions.
Cheng, K. et al. Foods. 2023.
Figure 1. Selenylation of Proteins to Form a Selenous Ester Bond
The distribution of selenylation sites has been reported in enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, metabolic regulation, and signaling cascades. For example, modification of cysteine residues by selenium can alter thiol reactivity, while selenocysteine incorporation at active sites is critical for the function of many selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases. Such site-specific modifications allow proteins to resist oxidative stress and maintain cellular redox balance. Dysregulation of selenylation has been associated with pathological states such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegeneration. Mapping these sites at the proteomic level is therefore essential for understanding the role of selenylation in health and disease, as well as for identifying potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers.
Analysis Workflow
Sample Submission Suggestions
1. Sample Types
Cell lysates, tissues, serum, plasma, or purified proteins. For other types, please contact us in advance for tailored preparation guidance.
2. Storage
Snap-freeze samples in liquid nitrogen and store at –80°C.
3. Shipping
Ship on dry ice to maintain modification stability.
4. Replicates
Biological replicates are recommended for statistical reliability.
Service Advantages
✔️Cutting-Edge Analytical Platforms
Orbitrap LC-MS/MS systems deliver high sensitivity and precision in selenylation site mapping.
✔️Customizable Workflows
Flexible study designs tailored to specific sample types and research objectives.
✔️Expert Team
Experienced scientists provide reliable technical support and biological interpretation.
✔️Rapid Turnaround
Streamlined workflows guarantee timely delivery of high-quality results.
Applications
Protein selenylation analysis enables insights into a wide spectrum of research areas:
1. Biomedical Research
Selenylation analysis supports investigations into redox regulation, cancer biology, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease by mapping site-specific selenium modifications that influence protein function and disease mechanisms.
2. Nutritional Science
Selenium is an essential micronutrient, and studying protein selenylation provides valuable insights into dietary selenium utilization, deficiency-related disorders, and the development of functional foods or supplements.
3. Environmental Monitoring
Analysis of selenylated proteins helps evaluate the biological impact of selenium exposure in ecosystems, linking environmental selenium levels to organismal health and providing biomarkers for ecological risk assessment.
By choosing MtoZ Biolabs as your research partner, you gain access to comprehensive and reliable analytical solutions that expand your understanding of protein selenylation and accelerate scientific discovery. Free project evaluation, welcome to learn more details.