The fat of the land

Mark Viant*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Metabolomics is a new field of research that employ advanced measurement techniques more traditionally associated with an analytical chemistry to look at the downstream effects of gene expression that control the amounts of sugars and fats. The technique can measure tens, hundreds or even thousands of metabolites providing a snapshot of the biochemical process going on within cell. The metabolomics studies reveal a new insight into drug toxicity and gene function done on organisms in controlled laboratory environments. The most promising results exhibits a clear cyclical pattern in the biochemical fingerprints of mussels as they progressed though their annual reproductive cycle so as to measure the complete seasonal changes in metabolism. The integration of omics measurements with traditional site chemistry assessments will provide a more predictive as well as cost effective approach to monitor and protect the environment in the more scientific way.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)14-15
Number of pages2
JournalPlanet Earth
Issue numberSPRING
Publication statusPublished - 1 Mar 2009

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Earth and Planetary Sciences(all)

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