Considerations when choosing a genetic model organism for metabolomics studies. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reed, Laura K; Baer, Charles F; Edison, Arthur S
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in chemical biology. Volume 36(2017)
• Page Start: 7
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: Bioorganic chemistry -- Periodicals; Biology -- Periodicals; Biochemistry -- Periodicals; Clinical biochemistry -- Periodicals; Biochemistry -- Periodicals; Chimie bio-organique -- Périodiques; Biologie -- Périodiques; 572.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2016.12.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1367-5931

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Phylometabolomics in model organisms can be used to understand the evolution of metabolic networks. Comparative analysis of metabolomes can improve metabolite identification. Consider experimental goals when choosing a model organism for metabolomics studies. Several genetic systems are available in most model organisms, each with strengths and weaknesses. Approaches can identify evolutionary selection on metabolites or pathways. Abstract : Model organisms are important in many areas of chemical biology. In metabolomics, model organisms can provide excellent samples for methods development as well as the foundation of comparative phylometabolomics, which will become possible as metabolomics applications expand. Comparative studies of conserved and unique metabolic pathways will help in the annotation of metabolites as well as provide important new targets of investigation in biology and biomedicine. However, most chemical biologists are not familiar with genetics, which needs to be considered when choosing a model organism. In this review we summarize the strengths and weaknesses of several genetic systems, including natural isolates, recombinant inbred lines, and genetic mutations. We also discuss methods to detect targets of selection on the metabolome.