What is metabolomics?

Metabolomics, as a new field of “omics” research, is characterised by the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the metabolome. “Omics” technologies are collected and correlated in a systems biology approach.

Metabolomics is the analysis of metabolite profiles in biological samples.They are considered to serve as unique chemical fingerprints and represent the intermediates and products of metabolism. Because biological regulation is more than just gene expression (protein-/protein-interactions, kinetic/allosteric regulation of enzymes) and the information on transcriptome or proteome level is often not sufficient to predict metabolic consequences, the analysis of distribution patterns or concentration of metabolites becomes an important factor. This way metabolomics is able to provide an overview of the metabolic status and global biochemical events associated with cellular or the biological system.

Why is this interesting?
The applications of metabolomics range from biomarker determination, to the indication of diseases, up to quality control in food industry. Therefore, metabolomics offers a broad spectrum of applications for different scientists in different fields of research.

Objectives
We are looking forward to promote the growth and development of metabolomics in Germany.