Analytical Methods for Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics Studies.

The advancement of mass spectrometry-based analytical platforms largely facilitates small-molecule metabolomics studies, which allows analysis of a large number of metabolites from bio-samples simultaneously and gives a general picture of metabolic changes related to diseases or environmental alteration. Due to the large diversity of cellular metabolites, globally and precisely examining metabolic profile remains the most challenging part in metabolomic experiment. Mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography enhances the sensitivity and resolving power of metabolites identification and quantification, as well as the versatility of analyzing a wide array of metabolites. In this chapter, we discussed the technical aspects of each step in the workflow of metabolomics studies we aimed to give technical guidelines for metabolomics investigation design and approach.