Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics

Abstract

Metabolomics based on mass spectrometry can provide quantitative and qualitative information of the pool of metabolites (metabolome) present intracellularly or extracellularly in a given biological system. A typical metabolomics workflow requires several key steps such as quick and robust sample preparations with quenching of metabolism, chemical derivatization if needed, instrumental measurement, data-processing with/without database information and further statistical analysis and interpretation. Here, we introduce general metabolomics workflows for global and targeted analyses using gas chromatography or liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometers.