Integrative metabolic flux analysis reveals an indispensable dimension of phenotypes

Abstract

Complete understanding of a biological system requires quantitation of metabolic fluxes that reflect its dynamic state. Various analytical chemistry tools, enzyme-based probes, and microscopy enable flux measurement. However, any method alone falls short of comprehensive flux quantitation. Here we show that integrating these techniques results in a systems-level quantitative map of absolute metabolic fluxes that constitute an indispensable dimension of characterizing phenotypes. Stable isotopes, mass spectrometry, and NMR spectroscopy reveal relative pathway fluxes. Biochemical probes reveal the physical rate of environmental changes. FRET-based and SRS-based microscopy reveal targeted metabolite and chemical bond formation. These techniques are complementary and can be computationally integrated to reveal actionable information on metabolism. Integrative metabolic flux analysis using various quantitative techniques advances biotechnology and medicine.