Our metabolomics group uses advanced analytical and chemometric techniques to provide a better understanding of how exposure events are linked to whole animal outcomes. This involves identification of the relevant biochemical pathways associated with the toxicity ultimately leading to determination of valid markers of exposure. These markers are based on up- and down-regulated endogenous metabolites measured in the tissues and biofluids of various test organisms. Our program focuses on eco-metabolomics, conducted with small-fish toxicology models (e.g., fathead minnows). Much of our analytical work is conducted with nuclear magnetic spectroscopy (NMR) spectroscopy. However, we are pursuing the application of other analytical techniques-mainly mass spectrometric techniques-for application to problems that are not well-suited to NMR analysis alone. Furthermore, we are exploring the development and application of new chemometric techniques that are more powerful and better suited for metabolomic application than the current, commonly applied technique of principal component analysis.

 

References

Ekman DR, et al: Aquatic Toxicology 85: 104, 2007

Ekman DR, et al: Metabolomics 2(2): 63, 2006

 

key words

Metabolomics; Metabonomics; Metabolite profiling; Biochemistry; Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; Mass spectroscopy;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants