Metabolomics Analytical Solution Simplifies Metabolite Identification

Metabolomics is the study of endogenous small molecule profiles or patterns in biological samples and marks a promising new area of research. The complete Thermo Scientific analytical solution for metabolomics research enables the robust and reproducible GC/MS and LC/MS analysis of complex metabolite samples.

High Resolution Metabolite Detection

Small molecule species present in biological samples have diverse chemistries and polarities and exist at widely differing abundances within complex matrices. Consequently, their detection requires use of analytical techniques which inherently provide high resolution, dynamic range, and sensitivity. The Thermo Scientific suite of GC/MS and LC/MS instruments offer unmatched performance in both triple quadrupole and ion trap technology to meet these challenges. These front end chromatographic solutions provide the user with ultra fast options for both GC and LC platforms which give higher throughput and improved chromatographic resolution and signal-to-noise ratios.

The first step in this metabolomics workflow example features the use of the Accela^TM High Speed LC, for improved chromatographic resolution and signal-to-noise ratios. The LTQ Orbitrap XL^TM  hybrid mass spectrometer then enables high resolution (up to 100,000 resolution) accurate mass detection with four orders of magnitude dynamic range. High resolution accurate mass measurements are made in parallel with comprehensive MSn analysis of HCD fragmented ions, for structural analysis.

The next step is to determine statistically significant differences in metabolite profiles. In conjunction with accurate mass MS and MSn data, metabolites present at different levels are identified using SIEVE™ software .

Confident Metabolite Identification

Once differentially abundant metabolites of interest are detected, the next step is their rigorous identification using accurate mass and MSn spectral information.

Find out more about the complete workflow and view an example (green tea vs black tea) of these solutions in action:

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