Metabolomics
Articles tagged with Metabolomics
Digital twin can reveal alcohol consumption in crime cases
Researchers at Linköping University developed a digital twin model to predict alcohol consumption and drinking patterns. The tool uses data from exhaled breath, blood, and urine samples to generate individualised results, providing a more accurate picture of when a person last drank.
International team takes first steps in mapping wheat biology at single-cell resolution
An international team is calling for a coordinated effort to map gene expression across every cell type and developmental stage of wheat. Spatial omics technologies can transform wheat research by revealing how individual cells respond to stress, regulate grain development, and control yield-related traits.
Decoding the chemical messengers: Gut microbes talk to the whole body through metabolites
Research systematically maps how bacterial metabolites influence disease progression and immune cell functions, highlighting their dual effects on the body. The review emphasizes the need for holistic regulation of metabolite profiles to achieve precision interventions.
AI expert and industry-leading toxicologist Thomas Hartung hails launch of agentic AI platform, ToxIndex, as a “transformative moment” in chemical safety science
ToxIndex integrates AI agents to access and orchestrate toxicological resources, providing comprehensive risk assessments in hours. The platform addresses a critical need in chemical and drug safety, meeting the vision of the 2007 NRC report for 21st-century safety testing.
AI expert and industry leading toxicologist Thomas Hartung hails launch of agentic AI platform a “transformative moment” in chemical safety science
ToxIndex integrates three tiers of New Approach Methodologies, leveraging AI agents to access and orchestrate toxicological resources, and providing comprehensive, source-traceable risk assessments in a fraction of the time required by traditional methods.
When rats run, their gut bacteria rewrite the chemical conversation with the brain
A new study found that voluntary exercise reshapes the gut microbiota, leading to changes in tryptophan metabolism and serotonin signaling. Exercise decreased the relative abundance of certain bacterial genera, shifting neuroactive signaling and lowering a key receptor in the memory center of the brain.
Turning over a new leaf in analyses of natural products
Researchers created an automated method to quickly analyze the metabolic effects of natural products, such as kratom, using high-resolution mass spectrometry and molecular network mapping. This breakthrough provides a detailed view of how chemicals are reshaped by human metabolism, marking a major step in natural products research.
AI provides a more precise time of death
Researchers at Linköping University have developed an AI model that can accurately determine the time of death from blood samples, providing crucial information in murder investigations and police work. The method uses metabolites to analyze changes in small molecules over time, outperforming current methods.
How the human exposome will unlock better health and medicine:
The Global Exposome Forum is a global initiative that aims to understand the complex interplay between biological, chemical, and environmental exposures and human health. The project has partnered with national governments, scientific institutions, and large membership-led organizations to advance exposomics science.
A new atlas could help guide researchers studying neurological disease
A new study has created a comprehensive atlas of lysosomal proteins in the brain, shedding light on the functions and dysfunctions of these cellular components. The data, which includes 790 proteins associated with lysosomes, could help scientists better understand neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Early-life exposure to a common pollutant harms fish development across generations
A study found that brief exposure to benzo[a]pyrene disrupted normal development and skeletal health in fish, with effects persisting across multiple generations. The researchers identified specific metabolic signatures that could serve as early warning indicators of long-term toxicity.
How do the active ingredients of monkfruit affect health?
Research identifies Luohan Guo's terpenoids, flavonoids, and amino acids as key compounds affecting health. The study's findings provide insights into the potential antioxidant mechanisms of monkfruit's active ingredients.
Metabolic analyses of animal fossils helps scientists reconstruct million-year-old environments
Researchers discovered metabolites in fossilized bones of animals that lived 1.3 to 3 million years ago, providing insights into their health, diets, and environments. The findings revealed warmer and wetter conditions compared to today.
New details on role of fat transport molecules in Alzheimer’s onset
A new study found that lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs) promote or protect against Alzheimer's disease depending on a person's genetics. LPCs transport healthy fatty acids to the brain, and their impact is critical in early detection and personalized treatments for those carrying the APOE ε4 gene.
Theobromine from cocoa linked to slower biological aging
Researchers found that higher levels of theobromine are associated with slower biological aging in humans, as measured by epigenetic markers such as DNA methylation and telomere length. The study suggests that theobromine may support healthy aging by influencing molecular epigenetic processes.
New online tool detects drug exposure directly from patient samples
A new online tool has been developed to detect drug exposure directly from patient samples, revealing a more accurate picture of what drugs are in a person's body than what is listed on their medical record. The tool uses a publicly-available library of chemical fingerprints from thousands of drugs and their breakdown products.
Study identifies molecular changes associated with hotter weather and preterm birth
Researchers found that exposure to hotter weather during pregnancy disrupts key amino acids and vitamins, increasing the risk of preterm delivery. The study provides new insights into the biological mechanisms behind preterm birth and may lead to the development of early biomarkers for identification and prevention strategies.
Ancient arctic adaptations may influence modern disease risk
Researchers identified 251 genetic variants that significantly affect circulating protein levels in Greenlanders, showing stronger genetic control over certain proteins in the Inuit population. The study uncovered 70 previously unreported associations and found links between Arctic-adapted genes and disease development.
World's largest metabolomic study completed, paving way for predictive medicine
The final set of data on nearly 250 metabolites has been released by UK Biobank, helping researchers predict disease risk and drive treatment strategies for neurological conditions, heart disease, and cancer. The data will also aid in understanding the biological processes that genetic or protein data alone might miss.
Wiley expands spectral libraries with major updates to IR, Raman, and LC-MS collections
Wiley has expanded its spectral libraries with major updates to IR, Raman, and LC-MS collections, delivering researchers enhanced capabilities for faster and more confident compound identification. The expansion brings over 9.5 million high-quality spectra, including 1 million IR spectra and 161,000 Raman spectra.
Immune reactions found behind human rejection of transplanted pig kidneys
Researchers have made breakthroughs in overcoming immune reactions behind human rejection of transplanted pig kidneys, paving the way for more successful clinical trials. The study reveals three major immune responses against the pig kidney and identifies potential biomarkers as early-warning systems for rejection.
Can blood analyses in dogs provide insights into human aging?
Researchers analyzed blood samples from dogs in the Dog Aging Project and found that post-translationally modified amino acids are strongly linked to age, suggesting a promising indicator of physiological aging. The study also highlighted an important role of the kidney in the relationship between age and blood metabolites.
New blood-based biomarkers could help predict bariatric surgery outcomes in teens
Researchers developed innovative blood-based biomarkers to predict long-term blood pressure improvements after bariatric surgery. The study analyzed pre-surgery blood tests and identified top 10 molecules linked to improved blood pressure outcomes.
Genetics pioneer transforms global depression research through multi-omics discoveries
Dr. Amin's transformative insights reshape international understanding of depression genetics, identifying novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. Her systemic disease model challenges traditional views of depression as a brain disorder.
How microbial strain variations influence neurobehavior
Researchers found that hosts harboring different microbial strains exhibited neurobehavioral differences. The study identified 34 significant associations between microbial single nucleotide variations and host plasma metabolites, primarily related to key physiological processes such as neuroactive regulation and oxidative stress.
For the first time, scientists have access to a comprehensive data set for identifying unknown compounds – thanks to experts at IOCB Prague
Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a comprehensive data set called MSⁿLib, which contains millions of records on small molecules. This opens up new possibilities for faster drug discovery, environmental monitoring, and advances in artificial intelligence.
Cancer cells can use backup routes to fuel their growth
A new study reveals cancer cells can convert a ketone into acetyl-CoA through an alternative pathway, reshaping the relationship between diet and cancer. This finding suggests that glucose may not always be the primary nutrient source for cells, adding to the complex understanding of cellular metabolism.
Study shows not all dietary proteins are digested the same way
A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that not all dietary proteins are digested the same way. The research found that specific proteins from different sources, such as soy and egg white, can be resistant to host digestion and interact with the gut microbiota in the large intestine.
Metabolomic characteristics and clinical implications in pathological subtypes of lung cancer
Lung cancer subtypes differ in metabolic profiles, with metabolomics offering insights into subtype-specific alterations. Metabolomics enables effective subtype differentiation and identification of potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and personalized therapy.
Researchers develop an innovative method for large-scale analysis of metabolites in biological samples
The new AEC-MS protocol provides comprehensive analysis of highly polar and ionic metabolites, improving molecular specificity and selectivity. This innovation has led to new applications in metabolomics, including studies on gut microbiome metabolism and energy substrate utilization.
Evidence shows that life-long oral nicotine shapes motor and metabolic aging in mice
A recent study published in Advanced Science found that life-long oral nicotine administration attenuates age-associated motor decline in mice by reprogramming aging-related systemic metabolism via the sphingolipid-energy metabolic axis. Nicotine treatment also enhanced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide availability, limited ceramide a...
Milestone for medical research: New method enables comprehensive identification of omega fatty acids
Researchers at the University of Graz and the University of California, San Diego have developed a novel method to determine omega positions of lipids in complex biological samples. This breakthrough enables the study of biological mechanisms in unprecedented detail, particularly for inflammation-related diseases.
Research suggests fresh grapes are a superfood
Research suggests that fresh grapes possess numerous health benefits due to their high antioxidant content, including promoting relaxation of blood vessels, healthy circulation, and modulating cholesterol levels. Grapes have also been shown to support brain, skin, gut, and eye health through various mechanisms
For tastier and hardier citrus, researchers built a tool for probing plant metabolism
A new tool allows researchers to probe the metabolic processes of key citrus crop, clementine, to improve yields, flavor, and nutritional value. The comprehensive genome-scale model captures Citrus clementina's metabolism with exceptional accuracy, enabling simulating economically-relevant scenarios.
Acupuncture eases opioid therapy: 84% of patients slash methadone by 20%, boosting immune response and rebalancing gut microbiota
A randomized, placebo-controlled study shows that acupuncture can safely reduce methadone requirements and counteract opioid-induced immune and gut disturbances. Acupuncture was found to lower methadone doses by 20% in 84% of patients, while boosting antiviral gene activity and restoring bile acid balance.
Gut microbes key to understanding how exercise boosts cancer immunity
A new study from the University of Pittsburgh shows exercise improves cancer outcomes and enhances response to immunotherapy in mice by reshaping the gut microbiome. The research found that a specific compound called formate, produced by gut bacteria in exercised mice, was associated with better outcomes in patients with melanoma.
How gut bacteria change after exposure to pesticides
A study in mice found that pesticide exposure changes specific gut bacteria growth patterns and nutrient processing, hinting at a probiotic approach to preventing health effects. The research identified certain microbes that can degrade pesticides and may lead to therapeutic strategies.
Global bottom-up initiative takes off to map 80% of chronic disease: All health stakeholders herald a new era in diagnosis, prevention & treatment
The Human Exposome Moonshot initiative aims to map the physical, chemical, biological and psychosocial exposures driving 80% of chronic diseases. The exposome project integrates advanced technologies to create a comprehensive understanding of environmental influences on health.
Metabolic markers found in obese adolescents guide vascular aging intervention
Researchers identified biomarkers like uric acid and bile acids as critical regulators of arterial stiffness and inflammation in adolescents with obesity. These findings provide new avenues for early intervention to prevent the progression of vascular stiffness and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers discover reaction linking sugar metabolism and cellular protection
Scientists have uncovered fast chemical reactions in living cells that may protect against cell damage. These reactions involve the amino acid cysteine and could lead to new anti-aging strategies.
Researchers discover unknown molecules with the help of AI
Researchers developed a machine learning model called DreaMS to analyze previously unknown molecules. The model significantly accelerates the analysis and uncovers unexpected chemical similarities between substances.
A machine learning tool for diagnosing, monitoring colorectal cancer
Researchers have developed a machine learning tool that identifies metabolism-related molecular profile differences between colorectal cancer patients and healthy individuals. The tool, called PANDA, shows promise as a noninvasive method of diagnosing colorectal cancer and monitoring disease progression.
Exposome Moonshot launching in Washington D.C.
The Human Exposome is a global scientific effort to understand the environmental factors that underpin disease and health. The Exposome Moonshot Forum aims to chart this exposome, providing usable metrics and data points for targeted public health interventions.
Metabolites in blood plasma offer news insights for measuring diet
Researchers analyzed metabolites in blood plasma to evaluate dietary patterns, revealing promising data on the foods we eat. The study found that specific metabolites changed significantly with the portfolio diet, providing potential biomarkers for assessing adherence to similar dietary patterns.
CABBI team deploys robotic lab to revolutionize plant bioengineering
Researchers use a new pipeline to make genetically engineered plants with improved oil production, reducing labor and time in the process. The FAST-PB platform integrates automation and single-cell lipidomics to accelerate plant transformation.
Blood metabolites may reduce genetic risk of glaucoma
A study found that adding blood metabolite data to genetic risk scores improves glaucoma prediction accuracy, particularly in individuals at high genetic risk. Higher levels of lactate, pyruvate, and citrate were associated with a reduced risk of glaucoma.
Effects of electroacupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine on gut microbiota and metabolomics in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Researchers investigated the effects of electroacupuncture on gut microbiota and metabolomics in ALS patients, finding a reduction in Eisenbergiella abundance and improvements in Lachnospiraceae levels. The study suggests that this treatment may be beneficial for patients with ALS.
Sulfur bacteria team up to break down organic substances in the seabed
Researchers discovered that sulfur bacteria from the Desulfobacteraceae family work together like a team to break down diverse organic compounds. By analyzing six strains, they found similar molecular strategies and a highly energy-efficient central metabolism pathway, enabling them to thrive in oxygen-free environments.
New Research: Strong link between Western diet during pregnancy and ADHD
A new study from Denmark reveals that a mother's diet during pregnancy, characterized by a Western dietary pattern high in fat and sugar, may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and autism. Researchers found that even small dietary adjustments away from this pattern could potentially reduce this risk.
More than meets the eye: An adrenal gland tumor is more complex than previously thought
New research reveals aldosterone-producing adenomas harbor at least four distinct cell types, including cortisol-producing cells that contribute to unexpected health issues. The study also identifies potential role of lipid-associated macrophages in influencing hormone production and tumor growth.
Pattern of compounds in blood may indicate severity of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia
Researchers identified 19 metabolites and found that levels of certain compounds correlated with increased blood pressure, worse obstetric outcomes, and poorer end-organ function. The study expands scientific knowledge of preeclampsia and its mechanisms, paving the way for future therapeutic strategies.
Identification of novel marker candidates associated with the progression of prediabetes to diabetes or its remission to normoglycemia
Researchers identified 14 proteins and 2 metabolites associated with prediabetes progression to diabetes, including DCXR and GSTA3. Inflammation and immune system pathways also play a key role in glucose homeostasis.
Metabolome and RNA-seq reveal discrepant metabolism and secretory metabolism profile in skeletal muscle between obese and lean pigs at different ages
Researchers identified distinct metabolic profiles in skeletal muscle of Taoyuan Black pig compared to Duroc pig, with correlations to intramuscular fat content and lipid metabolism. The study provides insights into the muscle-adipose axis and potential targets for nutritional regulation.
SeoulTech researchers propose a novel method to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity
The study proposes a novel approach for simultaneous extraction of metabolites and lipids from zebrafish embryos to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity. The researchers found that sphingolipids are a reliable biomarker of PFOS-induced neurotoxicity, and the method can be expanded to various biomolecules.
In small preliminary study, fearful pet dogs exhibited significantly different microbiomes and metabolic molecules to non-fearful dogs, suggesting the gut-brain axis might be involved in fear behaviors
A small preliminary study reveals that fearful dog microbiomes differ significantly from those of non-fearful dogs. These findings suggest a possible link between the gut and brain, potentially influencing fear behaviors.
Metabolomics-driven approaches for identifying therapeutic targets in drug discovery
The article reviews metabolomics-driven approaches for identifying therapeutic targets in drug discovery, highlighting the challenges and limitations of current methods. Emerging technologies like single-cell metabolomics, artificial intelligence, and mass spectrometry imaging are explored to enhance target discovery.
Researchers compare artificial intelligence ‘ageing clocks’ to predict health and lifespan
The study found that individuals with accelerated biological ageing had poorer health outcomes, while those with decelerated ageing had weaker links to good health. Metabolomic ageing clocks have the potential to identify early signs of declining health and inform preventative strategies.
Metabolomic changes linked to psychotic-like experiences and cannabis use in adolescents
This study found that adolescents who used cannabis exhibited unique metabolomic patterns associated with psychotic-like experiences, including variations in lipid metabolism and oxidative stress. In contrast, non-users showed correlations between inflammatory metabolic changes and hallucinations.
Fishing for biochemistry’s ‘dark matter’
Skirycz's five-year grant will support a novel method to characterize the 'dark matter' of the metabolome, identifying previously unknown functions of compounds. By comparing multiple interaction networks across different organisms, researchers aim to validate potential targets for understanding organismal health.