Iodination Analysis Service
Protein iodination is a significant chemical modification in biological research, involving the incorporation of iodine atoms into specific amino acid residues, most commonly tyrosine. This modification provides a powerful tool for probing protein structure, stability, and interactions, while also offering applications in imaging and functional studies. By selectively labeling proteins with iodine, researchers can gain detailed insights into conformational dynamics and biological mechanisms at the molecular level.
MtoZ Biolabs provides a dedicated Iodination Analysis Service that includes two complementary analytical pathways: target protein iodination analysis and iodination proteomics. Leveraging high-resolution mass spectrometry together with both radioactive and non-radioactive iodination chemistries, we deliver accurate site characterization and comprehensive modification profiling.
1. Target Protein Iodination Analysis
This option is designed for studies focusing on a single protein. MtoZ Biolabs applies optimized iodination chemistries and high-resolution LC-MS/MS to identify iodinated residues, quantify modification levels, and assess structural or functional consequences. This workflow is ideal for evaluating conformational changes, validating labeling efficiency, probing interaction interfaces, and supporting mechanistic biochemical studies.
2. Iodination Proteomics
For broader discovery-oriented analysis, iodination proteomics enables proteome-wide identification and quantification of iodinated proteins. Through systematic sample processing, enrichment where applicable, and Orbitrap-based LC-MS/MS acquisition, MtoZ Biolabs maps iodination sites across complex biological matrices. Quantitative analysis provides comparative profiles under different experimental conditions, while downstream bioinformatics links iodination patterns to pathways, structural domains, and interaction networks. This approach offers a global view of iodination events and their roles in signaling, stress response, and molecular imaging applications.
What is Iodination?
Protein iodination is more than a chemical labeling strategy; it is a biologically relevant modification that contributes to both physiological processes and experimental applications. In natural systems, iodination is central to thyroid hormone synthesis, where iodinated tyrosine residues within thyroglobulin serve as precursors to triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Beyond its physiological roles, iodination serves as a valuable research tool in probing protein structure and function. By introducing iodine at defined sites, researchers can assess conformational dynamics, study protein–protein interactions, and trace protein localization in complex biological environments.
In biomedical research, protein iodination also plays a role in diagnostics and therapeutic studies. Radioiodination enables sensitive radiolabeling for imaging applications, while non-radioactive iodination methods are increasingly applied for protein modification in structural and functional assays. Dysregulated iodination has been associated with oxidative stress and autoimmune thyroid disorders, making it not only a labeling strategy but also a subject of disease-oriented investigation. The integration of modern proteomics with iodination analysis now allows detailed mapping of iodinated proteins and their biological consequences. These advances highlight the dual role of iodination: as a physiological modification with clinical significance and as an experimental approach for advancing protein science.
Technical Principles
MtoZ Biolabs' Iodination Analysis Service combines advanced mass spectrometry, and both radioactive and non-radioactive labeling strategies.
💠Mass Spectrometry-Based Protein Iodination Analysis
High-resolution LC-MS/MS enables site-specific identification of iodination events, providing information on exact modification sites and their relative abundance across experimental conditions.
💠Radioiodination Methods
Utilizing isotopes such as iodine-125 (125I) and iodine-131 (131I), we provide sensitive and highly specific detection of biomolecules. This method is particularly suited for tracer studies and applications requiring radiolabeling for imaging.
💠Non-Radioactive Iodination Approaches
For research settings where radioactivity is not suitable, we employ non-radioactive techniques such as iodoacetylation and iodoacetamide alkylation. These approaches allow versatile and safe labeling strategies for protein iodination studies.
Henriksen-Lacey, M. et al. Pharmaceutics. 2010.
Figure 1. Diagram Showing Iodination of the Amino Acid Tyrosine
Analysis Workflow
Service Advantages
✔️High-Resolution Detection
Advanced LC-MS/MS platforms ensure precise identification and quantification of iodination sites.
✔️Customizable Workflows
Flexible protocols adapted to diverse sample types and specific research objectives.
✔️Expert Scientific Team
Experienced researchers in protein chemistry and post-translational modification analysis provide reliable support.
✔️Efficient Turnaround
Streamlined processes guarantee timely delivery of high-quality, publication-ready data.
Applications
1. Protein Structure Research
The introduction of iodine into specific amino acid residues alters the mass and spectroscopic properties of proteins, making iodination a powerful tool for probing structural organization and conformational changes. By mapping iodination sites, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of protein folding, stability, and intermolecular interactions, thereby advancing structural biology and mechanistic studies.
2. Endocrine Research
As a key step in thyroid hormone biosynthesis, iodination is central to studying endocrine regulation and thyroid disorders. Precise analysis supports research into hormone production, metabolic regulation, and related pathologies.
3. Radiopharmaceutical Development
Radioiodination techniques using isotopes such as 125I and 131I are central to the design of radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostics and targeted therapy. Sensitive detection and characterization of iodinated proteins enable researchers to optimize labeling strategies, evaluate radiotracer stability, and assess biodistribution. This facilitates the development of effective imaging agents and therapeutic compounds in oncology, cardiology, and nuclear medicine.
Contact us today to discuss your project and request a customized proposal!