NMR spectroscopy – a modern analytical tool for serum analytics of lipoproteins and metabolites

Abstract

AbstractNMR spectroscopy is a modern analytical method which is extremely suitable for the analysis of various body fluids. In addition to small metabolite quantification, the method is capable of differentiated lipoprotein subfraction measurements. The technique can be well standardized and allows extensive automation and good sample throughput compared with lipoprotein fractionation via ultracentrifugation. Because all evaluated parameters are determined simultaneously in one measurement, this method is especially suitable for metabolomics approaches in which even subtle changes in metabolite ratios may be relevant. This review gives an overview of the current methods of NMR spectroscopy, analysis strategies, and practical applications in various studies concerning lipid analysis as well as metabolomics. Over the course of the past years, NMR spectroscopy has heavily evolved from a mere research method into a tool that can be expected to play an important role in routine diagnostic testing in the future.