The analysis of metabolites is central to plant science research. The project concerns the development and application of the technology involved in high-throughput metabolite analysis. The work of the team has two elements:-

1. Research and development of metabolomics technology for plant and crop systems analysis.

2. Provision of an internal NMR and MS service for targeted metabolite analysis

Research is focussed on the development of NMR, MS and associated data-handling methods for metabolomic fingerprinting of plant extracts. Novel techniques for increasing coverage and throughput of metabolomic data collection, and in downstream data processing, analysis and biological context interpretation are priorities. Using model plants (e.g. Arabidopsis) the project aims to establish methods and demonstrate application of metabolomics in gene function analysis, trait analysis, metabolic dynamics, plant development and responses to stress and disease. Methodologies are applied to crop science programmes and contribute to understanding, at the molecular level, of quality traits, including those concerning diet and health, effect of GM, nutrient uptake, disease and environmental interactions and biofuel improvement.

The departmental analytical service (a function distinct from the metabolomics research) provides MS and NMR equipment maintenance and technical assistance to support research groups requiring targeted metabolite analysis.