The Core Facility Metabolomics offers a wide range of analytical techniques for the analysis of primary and secondary metabolites. Our aim is to investigate metabolic pathways and their function within physiological networks. As central technologies, we use mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The technology platform available directly at the ZBSA offers all major mass spectrometric techniques, including electrospray (ESI) and electron impact (EI) ionization methods. For analysis of plant secondary metabolites, we employ gas chromatography coupled to EI mass spectrometry (GC-EI-MS). For polar, high molecular and non-volatile compounds, we mainly use liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS). A focus of the Core Facility is on metabolite profiling, which is developed further towards metabolic flux analysis. In addition, it is possible to determine natural abundances of stabile isotopes (d¹³C, d¹⁵N, d¹⁸O, d²H) by isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS).

Besides questions on endogenous metabolism, we are interested in the metabolism of xenobiotica, e.g. pharmaceuticals or toxicologically relevant contaminants.

Furthermore, individual key metabolites can be structurally elucidated by LC-ESI-QqTOF systems with enhanced mass accuracy, as well as ion trap systems with their MSⁿ function. Several metabolomics databases are available for structure assignment to unknown metabolites.

Another mass spectrometry system belonging to the technology platform of the ZBSA is the orbitrap. Because of its high mass accuracy, it is used for determining the sum formula – and thus elemental composition - of unknown metabolites.

In close collaboration with different research groups, we develop individual analytical solutions for current research questions.

Metabolic pathway visualised with MapMan. (c) RZPD/MPIMG/MPIPP 2002-2009.