Mitochondrial Analysis Service

Mitochondrial analysis signifies an in-depth evaluation of mitochondrial morphology, functioning, and dynamics to define their role in normal physiology and pathological conditions. Protheragen's mitochondrial analysis service is powered by the combination of cutting-edge technologies and expertise to provide fully tailored solutions to address unique project requirements, ranging from specific functional assays to comprehensive multi-omic profiling, providing suitable and impactful results for mitochondrial-related investigations and therapeutics.

Overview of Mitochondrial Analysis

The focal point of mitochondrial disease research is the incorporation of mitochondrial analysis that assesses the functions of mitochondria within a given sample through bioenergetic, membrane potential, oxidative stress, mitochondrial DNA integrity, and morphological dynamics. By combining biochemical, molecular, and imaging techniques, it provides a detailed understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction across diverse sample types. These analyses are crucial for identifying bioenergetic deficits, evaluating drug toxicity, and characterizing disease models.

Mitochondrial detection and membrane potential measurement. Fig.1 Detecting mitochondria and measuring membrane potential. (Harbauer, A. B., et al., 2022)

Types of Mitochondrial Analysis

Mitochondrial Functional Analysis
Based on the quantification of mitochondrial bioenergetics, fundamental measurements include real-time recording of oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis via oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR). Other assays include ATP production, ETC complex activity, membrane potential, and ROS formation.

Morphological and Dynamic Analysis
Focused on analyzing the structures, network, and dynamics of mitochondria. Using high-resolution imaging tools to quantify network morphology, cristae architecture, and organelle size. Live-cell imaging enables the direct visualization and quantification of fission, fusion, and motility events.

Molecular and Genetic Analysis
Targeting the molecular composition and genetic integrity of mitochondria. These services include quantification of mtDNA copy number, detection of deletions and mutations using ddPCR, and comprehensive mtDNA sequencing. Also included is the evaluation of mitochondrial protein expression and relevant nuclear gene expression.

Applications of Mitochondrial Analysis

Mitochondrial characterization is key at every stage of the mitochondrial disease research process, and can furnish crucial information for strategic decision-making in therapeutic development and mechanistic investigation.

Drug Discovery and Efficacy Screening

Enabling the discovery of novel therapeutic candidates by screening compounds for their ability to restore bioenergetic function or modulate key mitochondrial pathways in disease models.

Preclinical Toxicity and Safety Evaluation

Critical for de-risking drug development by accurately predicting potential off-target effects on mitochondrial health, including drug-induced oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) inhibition or ROS over-generation.

Disease Model Characterization and Validation

Definitive, quantitative phenotyping of cell and animal models of mitochondrial disease to ensure model relevance and standardization for research and therapeutic testing.

Biomarker Discovery and Translational Research

Facilitating the discovery and validation of functional, morphological, or molecular markers for early disease diagnosis, prognosis, or monitoring therapy response in preclinical and translational studies.

Our Services

Achieving scientific breakthroughs within the challenging field of mitochondrial disease demands first-class, rigorous analytical backing. Leveraging the latest instrumentation and an experienced multidisciplinary team skilled in mitochondrial biology, we offer comprehensive assay services to expedite preclinical drug discovery, diagnostic development, and mechanistic studies. This integration of cutting-edge technology with a scientific master plan uniquely delivers trustworthy high-throughput data production, analysis, and interpretation, all designed to streamline client projects from bench to bedside.

Workflow of Mitochondrial Analysis Service

Initial Consultation and Project Design
Specific research aims, types of samples, and desired analytical endpoints are discussed in detail. Then a tailored service project is designed, which consists of assay selection, determining sample size requirements, and setting quality control standards.

Sample Preparation and Standardization
Samples (e.g., cell lines, primary cells, tissue homogenates) are treated in accordance with optimized specific protocols. This crucial procedure involves quality control assessments of viability, concentration, and integrity to ensure that subsequent analysis is reliable.

Execution of Analytical Assays
Experiments are conducted using state-of-the-art instrumentation (e.g., high-resolution respirometry, high-content imaging, flow cytometry) by experienced technicians. Strict adherence to SOPs and inclusion of internal controls ensure robustness and reproducibility of all generated data.

Report Generation and Delivery
A comprehensive report detailing the methodology, results, expert interpretations, and graphical summaries is delivered to the client. This ensures a clear understanding of the findings and facilitates informed decision-making for the next steps in the research or development pathway.

Key Mitochondrial Analysis Services Offered

An integrated analytical approach is provided to the mitochondrial normality and pathology in cellular and physiological settings. Key methods are high-resolution respirometry, metabolic flux analysis, determination of mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species formation, evaluation of mtDNA, as well as advanced imaging tools for morphology and dynamics. Every assay is rigorously validated and aligned with established industry and research standards, enabling use for exploratory studies as well as for regulatory requirements.

In Vitro Mitochondrial Analysis Service

In Vivo Mitochondrial Fission and Fusion Analysis

Employing advanced live-cell imaging and quantitative image analysis to characterize the dynamic processes of mitochondrial fission, fusion, motility, and network architecture.

Real-Time Mitochondrial Dynamics Imaging
Quantitative Morphological Assessment
Mitochondrial Network Connectivity Analysis

Contact Us

Services are designed to seamlessly integrate with broader R&D pipelines, such as validating mitochondrial targets in disease models, screening therapeutic compounds, and supporting preclinical efficacy studies. Protheragen aims to establish a link between research results and translational applications, which would support the transfer of basic knowledge to potential therapeutic targets or the development of diagnostic tools. Get in touch today to tell us about your needs and learn how our customized solutions can facilitate your research goals and timelines.

Reference

Harbauer, Angelika B et al. "Analysis of Mitochondria by Single-Organelle Resolution." Annual review of analytical chemistry (Palo Alto, Calif.) 15.1 (2022): 1-16.

For research use only, not for clinical use.