Metabolomics

Untargeted metabolomics measures metabolite and small molecule abundances within a sample. By profiling the differential amounts of metabolites in response to alterations in some environmental conditions (e.g. drugs, toxins, dietary or exercise interventions, disease states), we can assess how the stimuli changes the metabolome. The metabolome includes small molecule metabolites, hormones, peptide signaling molecules, and lipids. Additional computational analysis of changes in metabolome profiles can reveal pathways affected by the treatments or stimuli. For untargeted metabolomics, MS data is collected using our SciEX TripleTOF 5600+. Addtionally, in conjunction with the MALDI-TOF/TOF we routinely use the TripleToF for small molecule identification.  

We also have the capabilities of performing targeted, or quantitative metabolomics to determine the absolute amounts of select analytes in a sample. Using the Xevo TQ-S micro Triple Quad and isotopically labeled standards for the measured analyte, we can accurately quantify the concentrations of metabolites – like dopamine and ATP – fatty acids – including DHA and EPA – coenzymes and vitamins – like vitamin d3, flavins,  and NADH – and peptides down to the picomol and femtomole range.  

Sample preparation varies depending on the isolation and extraction methods necessary for analyte isolation. Consultation with the core facilities staff is recommended before beginning sample collection to determine the amount of crude sample (e.g. tissue, cells, media, rection mixture) or reaction mixtures are needed for proper analysis. Extraction methods for polar and non-polar analytes also vary. If you wish to prepare these samples on your own, please contact us in advance so we can help you choose the proper extraction methods and share our tested in-house protocols with you.