Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) for SCFAs Analysis
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Overview
The gut microbiota impact host metabolism by producing or catabolizing metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids, SCFA), generating a pathogens barrier against and altering the physiological activity of the host. The NMR application on feces and fecal water samples has been used to monitor human metabolic activity, especially the effect of microbiota on the regulation of host metabolism. 1H NMR spectroscopy is also able to monitor changes in certain gut-derived metabolites (e.g., SCFAs, amines, and trimethyl amine-N-oxide (TMAO)) in other biofluids such as urine and blood. Thus, through the application of NMR metabolomics, it is possible to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms by which the gut regulates food to affect host health.
NMR Technology for SCFAs Analysis at Creative Biolabs
The NMR method is based on the magnetic characteristics of particular atomic cores which absorb and emit electromagnetic radiations in a magnetic field. The produced energy appears at a specific resonance frequency which depends on the magnetic field and magnetic characteristics of specific isotopes. NMR is a quantitative (absolute), non-destructive, repeatable, and objective method. It has been mainly used for the simultaneous tracing of different metabolites in a complex biological material in terms of chemical composition and concentrations. NMR spectroscopy is often used in metabolomics studies because of its high reproducibility and the simple preparation process. NMR spectroscopy has been used for SCFA profiling of cecal contents and fecal extracts of mice.
Fig.1 Multiple purposes of NMR-based metabolomics through analysis of samples collected from different sites. (He, 2022)
Advantages of NMR-based Metabolomics
NMR-based metabolomics has specific advantages, including:
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High reproducibility.
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Fewer preparation steps.
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Time savings.
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Chromatography-free.
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Inherent quantification without the use of specific internal standards.
These advantages make NMR-based metabolomics the first choice for high-throughput analysis and interlaboratory comparisons. High-throughput metabolite profiling methods, including 1H NMR, provide an excellent platform for the quantitative detection of SCFAs in complex biological matrices. In addition, NMR spectroscopy also provides information metabolic profile of the overall metabolic characteristics. Therefore, it is most suitable for measuring cecal or fecal samples (higher SCFA concentrations).
Creative Biolabs is a leading provider of customized solutions for live biotherapeutics, and next-generation probiotics, including gut microbiota research. We are "problem solvers" and focus on providing first-class service. Learn about our unique approach, check out our latest news, or just get in touch, we welcome the opportunity to discuss ways we can work with you to complete SCFAs analysis.
Reference
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He, W.; Bertram, H.C. NMR-Based Metabolomics to Decipher the Molecular Mechanisms in the Action of Gut-Modulating Foods. Foods. 2022, 11(17): 2707.
For Research Use Only. Not intended for use in food manufacturing or medical procedures (diagnostics or therapeutics). Do Not Use in Humans.
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