Introduction
Compounds labeled with isotopic markers are invaluable tools in various scientific research areas. Among the numerous isotopic labels used, those tagged with both carbon-13 (13C) and nitrogen-15 (15N) stand out due to the comprehensive information they can provide. Carbon-13 and nitrogen-15 are heavy, stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen, differing from the more common carbon-12 (12C) and nitrogen-14 (14N) by one neutron. This slight atomic variation brings about notable differences in molecular behavior, which can be more easily detected by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. 13C NMR and 15N NMR provide detailed insights into molecular structure, dynamics, and interactions that conventional NMR using natural isotopic abundance cannot offer. Additionally, mass spectrometry (MS) also can accurately identify and quantify these isotopic labels. With these technologies, this dual-labeling compound allows the more detailed tracking of molecular dynamics, metabolic pathways, and protein structures, creating a more profound understanding of complex biochemical processes.
Applications
Structural biology: One of the most significant applications of compounds labeled with both 13C and 15N is in the field of structural biology. Understanding the three-dimensional structures of biomolecules such as proteins, DNA, and RNA is crucial for elucidating their functional mechanisms. NMR spectroscopy is a powerful technique for determining molecular structures in solution and these dual-labeled compounds play a pivotal role in this technique. For example, with 13C and 15N labeling, NMR spectroscopy can provide detailed information about the protein backbone and side-chain assignments, facilitating the determination of protein structures at atomic resolution.
Metabolic flux analysis: Another essential application of dual-labeled compounds is metabolic flux analysis (MFA). This technique is used to study metabolic pathways and their regulatory mechanisms in living cells. By feeding cells with 13C and 15N labeled substrates, researchers can trace the incorporation and fate of these isotopes through various metabolic networks. Using advanced MS and NMR techniques, MFA can quantify the rates of metabolic reactions and identify flux distributions within cellular pathways.
Medical diagnostics and research: In medical research, 13C and 15N labeled compounds are utilized in diagnostic imaging and tracer studies. Positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can leverage these isotopic labels to visualize and quantify physiological processes in vivo. For instance, tracer studies with 13C and 15N labeled amino acids or nucleotides can provide insights into protein synthesis, turnover rates, and nucleic acid metabolism. Such information is crucial for understanding conditions like muscle wasting, cancer cachexia, and genetic disorders.
Others: 13C and 15N labeled compounds can be also used as tracers to study environmental processes such as nutrient cycling, pollution transport, and microbial activity.
What can we offer?
Compounds labeled with both 13C and 15N are powerful tools that have significantly advanced our understanding of complex biological systems. As a professional supplier of stable isotope-labeled products, Alfa Chemistry can offer all kinds of compounds labeled by both 13C and 15N, which can be widely used in various fields, from structural biology, metabolic flux analysis, and medical diagnostics to environmental science. We ensure rapid and reliable delivery of products to meet your project timelines. If you are unable to find the product you're looking for, we also offer custom synthesis services. Don't hesitate to contact us for any assistance you may require.
Please kindly note that our products and services are for research use only.
