Overall Glycosidic Linkage Determination
We perform sequential digestions of a purified glycans with various exoglycosidases to determine their overall structure, identify monosaccharide composition, and characterize some stereochemistry of glycosidic linkages (e.g., distinguishing alpha vs beta-linked galactose residues).
Sialic acid linkage and NeuAc/NeuGc ratios determination
This method is designed to differentiate the α-2,3 and α-2,6 sialic acid linkages by stabilization of the sialic acid residues through esterification/lactonization. The α2,6 sialic acid linkage is notable for enhancing anti-inflammatory activity and reducing the toxicity of therapeutic antibodies. In addition, the type of sialic acid linkage influences viral tropism, affecting how viruses target the host cells
Linkage-specific sialic acid analysis of plasma N-glycans by MALDI-TOF (zoom on the 2400-3200 m/z range).
MS/MS fragment analysis or Via GU values
Collision-induced fragmentation of glycans in the gas phase is automatically carried out by the QqTOF mass spectrometer, producing characteristic fragment ions that support the structural elucidation of glycans.
Structural characterization of procainamide labeled N-glycans via UHPLC-MS/MS
Glycan identification with pure glycan standards
Ultimately, glycan structures can be definitely confirmed by comparing them to synthetic standards, which exhibit the same physicochemical properties, such as the retention time and the fragmentation pattern.
Identification and isomer assignment of α2,3- and α2,6-linked sialylated A2G2S2 N-glycans by UHPLC-MS using synthetic internal standards as retention time references.
How we work on the General Structural Assignment
Our workflow ensures a clear, straightforward, and transparent process for sample glycoanalysis
Sample
Let us know which type of sample (purified protein, antibodies, cells, tissue, etc.) you want to analyze, and we will apply the most convenient sample preparation protocol.
Glycan release and isolation
We will use the optimal enzymes, techniques, and procedures to have the glycans ready to be analyzed.
Chemical labelling of glycans
When needed, we will choose the labeling method according to the detection techniques.
Sample purification
We enrich and purify the samples accordingly to obtain the best signals.
Mass spectrometry analysis
The latest technology and instruments are used to ensure the data quality.
Data processing
Our experts analyze and interpret the data to transform it into actionable information.
Report
A publication-type report that includes the Materials & Methods, data interpretation, and potential further analysis.
Purposes and applications for General Structural Assignment
General Structural Analysis Service of purified glycoprotein – or more complex biological matrices – serves several purposes and applications:
Oncology
As glycosylation patterns in cancer cells often change (e.g., increased sialylation, fucosylation, or branching), this service enables precise identification of tumor-associated glycans that can serve as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers and even therapeutic targets. (E.g., characterizing aberrant glycosylation on PSA to improve specificity in prostate cancer screening)
Infectiuos Diseases
Viral binding and tropism (e.g., influenza, SARS-CoV-2) are influenced by sialic acid linkage types (α2,3 vs. α2,6).
Asparia can help distinguish these linkages, supporting the study of:
- pathogen-host interactions
- vaccine design
- antiviral development
Immune and Inflammatory Diseases
In conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, altered glycosylation of IgGs (e.g., decreased galactosylation) affects immune activity.
We can detect and characterize such changes to monitor inflammatory status and therapeutic response
Microbiome
Precise glycan structural data help understand interactions occurring during microbial adhesion, immune evasion, and symbiotic processes. We might identify specific host glycans targeted by your probiotic or pathogenic strains
Biomarker & Diagnostics
Structural changes in glycans, such as galactosylation, sialylation, or bisecting GlcNAc, are associated with physiological and pathological states.
Asparia’s approach helps discover early diagnostic biomarkers or treatment monitoring indicators.
Other fields
Nutrition: Structural elucidation of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) enables the development of functional ingredients for infant formula or gut-health supplements.
Cosmetics: validate and optimize bioactive glycan ingredients for skincare and new formulations since certain glycans exhibit anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and anti-aging effects.
