Metabolomics Sample Preparation: A Complete Guide to Reliable LC-MS Workflows
What metabolomics sample preparation must accomplish Metabolomics sample preparation is the set of steps that converts a biological specimen into an extract suitable for reliable measurement. It is not simply a cleaning step before LC-MS. Collection conditions, storage temperature, extraction chemistry, and the timing of standard addition can all change which metabolites remain measurable. A well-designed workflow protects the biological signal while controlling technical variation introduced by the analyst and the instrument. The ideal procedure depends on the study question. Polar metabolites, lipids, volatile compounds, and unstable intermediates behave differently. A protocol optimized for amino acids in plasma may not...