Metabolomic analysis of trypanosomatid protozoa.
Metabolomics aims to measure all low molecular weight chemicals within a given system in a manner analogous to transcriptomics, proteomics and genomics. In this review we highlight metabolomics approaches that are currently being applied to the kinetoplastid parasites, Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania spp. The use of untargeted metabolomics approaches, made possible through advances in mass spectrometry and informatics, and stable isotope labelling has increased our understanding of the metabolism in these organisms beyond the views established using classical biochemical approaches. Set within the context of metabolic networks, predicted using genome-wide reconstructions of metabolism, new hypotheses on how to target aspects of metabolism to design new drugs against these protozoa are emerging.
Wellcome Trust Centre for Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, United Kingdom.
Darren J
DJ
Creek
Jana
J
Anderson
Malcolm J
MJ
McConville
Michael P
MP
Barrett
D007891:Leishmania / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D053858:Metabolic Networks and Pathways; D055432:Metabolomics; D014346:Trypanosoma brucei brucei / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism