Department of Biotechnology
inStem (Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine)

A versatile LC-MS/MS approach for comprehensive, quantitative analysis of central metabolic pathways.

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date of Publication

January 1, 2018

Journal

Wellcome open research

Volume/Issue

3

ISSN

2398-502X

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) based approaches are widely used for the identification and quantitation of specific metabolites, and are a preferred approach towards analyzing cellular metabolism. Most methods developed come with specific requirements such as unique columns, ion-pairing reagents and pH conditions, and typically allow measurements in a specific pathway alone. Here, we present a single column-based set of methods for simultaneous coverage of multiple pathways, primarily focusing on central carbon, amino acid, and nucleotide metabolism. We further demonstrate the use of this method for quantitative, stable isotope-based metabolic flux experiments, expanding its use beyond steady-state level measurements of metabolites. The expected kinetics of label accumulation pertinent to the pathway under study are presented with some examples. The methods discussed here are broadly applicable, minimize the need for multiple chromatographic resolution methods, and highlight how simple labeling experiments can be valuable in facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the metabolic state of cells.

Alternate Journal

Wellcome Open Res

PubMed ID

30345389

PubMed Central ID

PMC6171562

Authors

Adhish Walvekar
Zeenat Rashida
Hemanth Maddali
Sunil Laxman