Statistical analysis

Abstract

A data matrix (sample vs. metabolites) acquired from a mass spectrometry-based metabolomics study includes not only biological information but also technical noise. Thus, meaningful information has to be extracted from the complicated and huge data matrix by means of statistical analysis. It is very important to use and interpret the statistical result accurately. Otherwise, critical misunderstanding of the data from a biological point of view might occur. The purpose of this chapter is to aid researchers in finding novel biological insights accurately from statistical analyses.