Privacy Policy

Last Updated: August 1, 2025

Welcome to ProteoIntegrator (the "Platform"), operated by Meritudio ("we," "us," or "our"). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information when you access or use the Platform and its services (collectively, the "Services"). By using the Platform, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the Platform.

We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your data responsibly. This Policy applies to all users, including academic researchers and approved commercial users.

1. Information We Collect

We collect information to provide, improve, and secure our Services. The types of information we may collect include:

Personal Information

• Account Information: When you register for an account, we collect your name, email address, institutional affiliation, and any other details you provide.
• Contact Information: If you contact us via email (e.g., bd@meritudio.com or pi@meritudio.com) or support forms, we collect your name, email, and message content.
• Payment Information: For commercial users, if applicable, we may collect billing details, but we use third-party processors and do not store payment card information directly.

User Data

• Uploaded Data: You may upload proteomics data files (e.g., DDA, DIA, TMT formats) for analysis. This may include research data, which could contain sensitive or personal information depending on your usage.
• Usage Data: We automatically collect information about your interactions with the Platform, such as IP address, browser type, device information, pages visited, and timestamps.

Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies, web beacons, and similar technologies to enhance user experience, analyze usage, and support features like session management. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings.

We do not collect sensitive personal information (e.g., health data) unless it is part of your uploaded User Data, in which case you are responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable laws.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information for the following purposes:

• To provide and maintain the Services, including processing your uploaded data for analysis, imputation (e.g., BPCA), batch correction (e.g., ComBat), visualizations, and other features.
• To communicate with you, such as sending account notifications, updates, or responses to inquiries.
• To improve the Platform, including analyzing usage patterns, developing new features, and conducting research using anonymized, aggregated data.
• To ensure security, prevent fraud, and comply with legal obligations.
• For academic users, to support citations and ongoing development.
• For marketing purposes, such as sending newsletters about updates or related services (you can opt-out at any time).

We may use anonymized or aggregated data derived from User Data for internal research, statistical analysis, or to enhance our algorithms, provided it does not identify you or reveal specific data.

3. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information in the following circumstances:

• With Service Providers: We engage third-party vendors (e.g., cloud hosting, analytics tools) who process data on our behalf under strict confidentiality agreements.
• For Legal Reasons: If required by law, subpoena, or government request, or to protect our rights, safety, or property.
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or asset sale, your information may be transferred.
• With Your Consent: For any other purpose with your explicit permission.

User Data is not shared with third parties except as necessary for providing the Services or as anonymized aggregates.

4. Data Security

We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, loss, or alteration. This includes encryption for data in transit and at rest, access controls, and regular security audits.

However, no system is completely secure. You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account credentials and ensuring that your uploaded User Data complies with privacy laws (e.g., obtaining necessary consents for any personal data included).

5. Data Retention

We retain personal information for as long as necessary to provide the Services, fulfill legal obligations, or resolve disputes. User Data is stored during active use and may be deleted upon your request (subject to legal requirements). Anonymized data may be retained indefinitely for research purposes.

6. Your Rights and Choices

Depending on your location, you may have rights under data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, or Chinese Personal Information Protection Law):

• Access, correct, or delete your personal information.
• Object to or restrict processing.
• Request data portability.
• Withdraw consent (where applicable).

To exercise these rights, contact us at pi@meritudio.com. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe.

You can also:

• Opt-out of marketing emails via the unsubscribe link.
• Manage cookies through your browser.
• Delete your account, which will remove associated personal information and User Data.

7. International Data Transfers

The Platform is operated from China, and your data may be processed there or in other countries where our service providers are located. We ensure appropriate safeguards for cross-border transfers, such as standard contractual clauses.

8. Children's Privacy

The Platform is not intended for children under 18. We do not knowingly collect information from minors. If we become aware of such data, we will delete it promptly.

9. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on the Platform with the updated date. Material changes will be notified via email or prominent notice. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.

10. Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, contact us at:

• Email: pi@meritudio.com or bd@meritudio.com

Thank you for trusting ProteoIntegrator with your data.