Sample Preparation & Handling in Metabolomics

In recent years, metabolomics has been widely used to explore the dynamic responses of living systems in biochemical research. Due to the complexity of the metabolome, complementary analysis platforms and methods are required for quantitative or qualitative analysis. In order to generate high-quality metabolomic data, sample collection and preparation is a key step and needs to be carefully selected. Creative Proteomics focuses on the proven sample preparation and handling methods in metabolomics. According to the specific study aim and the analytical approach, we are committed to providing optimal sample preparation and handling strategies for the most accurate and reproducible results.

Sample preparation and handling in metabolomics

For metabolomics studies, all samples need to be collected, processed, and stored appropriately in the same way. In addition to using the same collection container, it is also important to freeze the samples immediately and minimize factors. As some metabolites change rapidly with enzyme activity, immediate freezing is critical. In order to minimize metabolic changes, freeze-thaw cycles, contamination, and differing preservation methods should be avoided.

In addition, as an essential component in metabolomics, sample preparation and handling requires a specific design based on the appropriate analysis platform. So far, there are two commonly used techniques, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). NMR produces spectra that are directly linear with the concentration of the compound. This metabolomics technique is characterized by highly selective and reproducible, which requires less sample preparation. MS is always combined with effective sample preparation and chromatographic separation, thereby, has high sensitivity, high specificity, and good dynamic range, especially for targeted metabolomics. However, the signal intensity of MS-based metabolomics is susceptible to the type of sample preparation used and its molecular environment.

Service offering

Sample types

In any case, convenient and reliable sample preparation and handling strategies are sufficient and necessary to ensure reliable and repeatable interpretation of data. We have developed a standardized and robust workflow for handling with a range of sample matrices, including

• Tissues
• Organisms
• Cells (cell culture media /supernatant, cell pellets)
• Biofluids (plasma, serum, whole blood)

Sample management  

Samples are immediately logged into our standardized laboratory information management system once they are received. All samples are treated in the same manner and stored in carefully monitored, temperature-controlled freezers, until they are ready for processing. Our scalable management system supports traceability, sample quality, and fast turnover.

Sample handling

During the process of metabolomics analysis, biological samples require a standardized metabolite extraction protocol, which needs to be further optimized and validated to a specific biospecimen type as well as metabolite species. Based on automated sample extraction, processing, and monitoring, we are able to handle hundreds of samples per day. Our simple and rapid sample preparation strategy performed at a low temperature enables minimize changes in metabolites.

The workflow of our services

Creative Proteomics is committed to providing high-quality service to greatly accelerate our customers' project progress and success. For more information on how we can help you, please feel free to contact us. Customers have direct access to our staff and get timely feedback.

* For research use only.