NMR METABOLOMICS OFF THE BEATEN TRACKS

NMR metabolomics has gained recognition in many fields such as health, pharmaceutical, plant or food sciences, thanks to major developments in sample preparation and data processing. However, most applications rely on 1D 1H NMR and do not take advantage of the fantastic variety of data acquisition methods that NMR has to offer. We have recently explored the potential of several methodological developments to increase the sensitivity and/or resolution of NMR metabolomics. These include the systematic integration of fast 2D spectroscopy in NMR metabolomics workflows, and the first hyperpolarized 13C NMR metabolomics study at natural abundance. Examples pertaining to plant sciences, chemical ecology or food safety will be presented. We will also discuss further perspectives to make NMR metabolomics better integrated in its environment, by improving its accessibility through benchtop NMR or by advanced data integration with other analytical techniques.