Measuring metabolites

There are a multitude of ways to separate, identify, and measure metabolites. In fact it is a good idea to start by asking yourself which of those things you want to do. For instance, some techniques (e.g. LC-MS) are excellent for identifying things, but may not fit your ideal for quantifying them. Others (e.g. one-dimensional HPLC) are weak on separation but good on quantification. Some (anything chromatographic) are broad, others (enzyme-coupled spec assays) are very specific.

These pages aim to

• introduce the range of techniques available
• describe the (very) basics of each
• provide entry-points to more detailed information and resources, where appropriate

  Information is available about

  • General methodology
  • Sample preparation
  • Spectrophotometric methods
  • HPLC
  • LC-MS
  • GC-MS