The Metabolomics Core is nested in the Biomolecular Analysis Facility, directed by Nicholas Sherman, PhD. The major goal of the facility is to provide access to advanced mass spectrometry instrumentation and qualified staff at the University so that investigators can not only obtain high-quality data for complex, scientifically significant research but also interact directly with the staff to provide effective experimental planning and design. The BAF and the Trans-University Microbiome Initiative (TUMI) have recently hired a dedicated Metabolomics Staff Scientist, Nishikant Wase, who will perform metabolomics extractions and targeted and untargeted metabolomics profiling via both liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. With Dr. Wase’s help, we will characterize a library of known metabolites to identify host and bacterial metabolites in microbiome-related samples. In addition to running samples for metabolomic profiling, the BAF will work closely in the development of sample storage and processing, and metabolite extraction protocols from urine, blood, stool, saliva, breastmilk, and cord blood, and be available for post-experiment data analysis as needed. The BAF also provides internal and external controls for samples, ensuring quality control for longitudinally collected samples.
The Mass Spectrometry section of the BAF identifies and quantitates proteins and other types of molecules either individually or in complex mixtures with a Thermo Velos Orbitrap (High Resolution and Mass Accuracy) and a Thermo Electron TSQ Quantum Access MAX (Multiple Reaction Monitoring). The Core or individual researchers (open access) perform quality control on molecules using a Bruker MicroFlex MALDI-TOF.
The ability of the BAF to determine the absolute quantitation of small molecules and metabolites was recently strengthened by the addition of a Thermo Orbitrap ID-X with both LC and ZipChip (CE) interfaces. The purchase of this instrument was supported by TUMI and the Commonwealth of Virginia Equipment Trust Fund in 2019, demonstrating the recognition by the University of the importance of metabolomics in the future of biomedical research. In addition to these investments, the University provides support in the BAF through subsidies for users (40% copay for UVA users), which will be applied to all fees incurred by TUMI users.
