Metabolomics 101:
What It Is, How It Works
Curious about metabolomics but not sure where to start?
Read the full story below for a deeper dive—or swipe through the quick carousel at the end for a snapshot of the basics: what it is, how it works, and why it matters.
What is Metabolomics?
Metabolomics is the comprehensive study of metabolites—small molecules that serve as the end products of cellular processes. These metabolites, including amino acids, lipids, sugars, and organic acids, reflect the biochemical activity within cells, tissues, or organisms. Unlike genomics or proteomics, which provide insights into genetic potential and protein expression, metabolomics offers a direct snapshot of the physiological state of a system, capturing the dynamic responses to environmental changes, disease, or therapeutic interventions.
How Metabolomics Works
The process of metabolomics typically involves several key steps:
Sample Collection: Biological samples such as blood, urine, or tissue are collected.
Sample Preparation: Samples are prepared to extract metabolites, often requiring filtration or separation techniques.
Analytical Measurement: Advanced technologies like mass spectrometry (MS) or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are employed to identify and quantify metabolites.
Data Analysis: The vast amount of data generated is processed using bioinformatics tools to interpret metabolic profiles and identify significant patterns or biomarkers.
These steps enable researchers to analyze metabolic pathways and understand how they are altered in various conditions, from metabolic disorders to cancer.
Fluidome’s Contribution
At Fluidome, we aim to simplify and expedite metabolomics workflows, making them more accessible to researchers. Traditional metabolomics approaches can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring specialized expertise. Our solutions, including the EasyOmics Plate, LabOmics Plate, Crosstalker Plate, and Metabolite Standard Mix, are designed to streamline sample preparation and analysis processes, reducing the need for extensive training and specialized equipment.
By providing ready-to-use tools, we empower researchers to conduct reliable metabolomics analyses quickly and efficiently, facilitating advancements in various scientific fields.
