Metabolomics
The Metabolomics Team develops techniques for comprehensive metabolite analysis applicable to a range of samples across the IFR science programmes. As well as undertaking the actual measurements (by NMR, LC/MS, GC/MS or combinations of these) we advise on experimental design and carry out much of the statistical data analysis, compound identification and final interpretation of results.
Aims
- Apply high throughput NMR techniques for measurement of metabolite profiles from human urine and plasma samples
- Develop complementary LC/MS and GC/MS techniques that will extend the range of metabolites measured by NMR on the above samples
- Investigate the factors that affect biofluid metabolite profiles in humans drawing on data from different nutritional interventions, experimental designs and modes of sample collection
- Learn lessons for the design and data analysis of new metabolomics/nutrition projects that will help to cope with the high level of natural variation present in human studies
- Use advanced chemometrics techniques to classify samples and identify metabolic markers related to effects of dietary interventions or onset of diet-related disease
- Develop data bases to assist automated chemical identification of compounds after marker signals have been located
- Develop and optimise combined LC/MS/NMR approaches for the identification of unknown compounds identified as markers
- Develop a similar range of methods appropriate to plant, food and microbial extracts
Further details regarding the Metabolomics Team and our current research can be found on our website
Fax: +44(0)1603 507723