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Metabolomics Core Facility

Services

The NIEHS Metabolomics Core Facility (MCF) aids researchers by offering a discovery-oriented selection of mass spectrometry analyses (e.g. untargeted metabolomics) with a focus on small molecules ( < 2000 Da) of endogenous, microbial, and xenobiotic origin in a variety of matrices including cell lysates, tissues, and biofluids (e.g. plasma, urine). Expertise in small molecule mass spectrometry is complemented by state-of-the-art high-performance instrumentation. The MCF can provide analysis of samples for simple pilot projects or as involved as multi-year collaborative research. Core services include consultation in experimental design and sample processing, data acquisition, and tabular reporting of results. Additional collaborative support, including data analysis, interpretation, and assistance with reporting, is offered on a case-to-case basis.

The MCF works in conjunction with the NIEHS Mass Spectrometry Research and Support Group (MSRSG) to provide complementary chemical measurements and data analysis, and for hypothesis-oriented mass spectrometric analysis (e.g. targeted metabolomics or quantitative assays) to meet the needs of intramural investigators. Please contact either Alan K. Jarmusch in MCF, Leesa J. Deterding in MSRSG, or Jason G. Williams for consultation.

Capabilities

  • Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-MS)
  • Tandem Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS and MSn) via collision-induced dissociation (CID) or higher-energy collisional dissociation (HCD)
  • High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS) up to 500,000 FWHM resolution at m/z 200
  • Ion Mobility Spectrometry – Mass Spectrometry (IMS-MS) up to ~R=200 (high resolution)

Equipment

  • Bruker Elute Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph
  • Bruker timsTOF Pro Mass Spectrometer
  • Hamilton STARlet Automated Liquid Handling System
  • Thermo Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid Mass Spectrometer
  • Thermo Vanquish Horizon Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph

Offerings

  • Untargeted Metabolomics
  • Identification
  • Measurement of molecular weight
  • Measurement of MS/MS or MSn
  • Measurement of collisional cross-section
  • Untargeted Metabolomics Data Analysis

Potentially Observed Chemicals

Sample Submission

NIEHS intramural researchers should use the contact information below for consultation and instructions on sample preparation and submission. Protocols for sample preparation are available; success in metabolomics analysis may hinge on attention to these details. Following consultation, please arrange for sample drop-off or shipping to NIEHS, Building 101, Room F025. Sample metadata must be provided when samples are submitted to facilitate accurate sample handling and data acquisition.

NIH intramural researchers (those not at NIEHS) should visit the Trans-NIH Metabolomics Core Facility.

NIEHS Shared and Core Facilities are available to NIH researchers. Information for staff on utilizing these services may be found on the NIEHS Junction or by contacting the staff below.

Contacts

Alan K. Jarmusch, Ph.D.
Alan K. Jarmusch, Ph.D.
Director, Metabolomics Core Facility (MCF)
Tel 984-287-4523
alan.jarmusch@nih.gov
111 Tw Alexander Dr
David P Rall Building
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Michael B. Fessler, M.D.
Michael B. Fessler, M.D.
Chief, Immunity, Inflammation, and Disease Laboratory and Principal Investigator
Tel 984-287-4081
fesslerm@niehs.nih.gov
P.O. Box 12233
Mail Drop D2-01
Durham, N.C. 27709
Kaylie I. Kirkwood
Kaylie I. Kirkwood, Ph.D.
Chemist
Tel 984-287-4632
kaylie.kirkwood@nih.gov
111 Tw Alexander Dr
David P Rall Building
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Kirsten Overdahl
Kirsten E. Overdahl, Ph.D.
Chemist
Tel 984-287-4562
kirsten.overdahl@nih.gov
111 Tw Alexander Dr
David P Rall Building
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Heather Winter
Heather L. Winter, Ph.D.
Chemist
Tel 984-287-4589
heather.winter@nih.gov
P.O. Box 12233
Mail Drop F0-04
Durham, N.C. 27709
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