Borges Lab

Borges Lab is a research laboratory at Arizona State University focused on protein posttranslational modifications and biospecimen integrity. Its researchers investigate how modifications to proteins change and whether those changes reflect biological processes or occur after collection through mishandling. The lab has found that several types of protein modifications can arise ex vivo, making them potential indicators of specimen integrity. This work connects molecular research with biospecimen science and aims to help determine whether samples continue to reflect their in vivo state.

Mass spectrometry is a key method in the lab’s research, supported by careful, creative sample preparation to characterize and quantify posttranslational modifications. The group also develops chemical approaches to track biospecimen exposure to thawed conditions, which can trigger reactions that alter molecular composition. Its research topics include biospecimen integrity, bottom-up glycomics, and osteocalcin and vitamin K. The lab also provides Paper Retriever, a software tool for legally bulk downloading academic papers from varied inputs, including citations and screenshots.