Can I use already frozen material?
Yes, while we prefer that the samples have been stored for less than 2 years for optimal results, older stored samples can still be processed and analyzed.
Can I analyze non‐human samples?
Yes, we have experience with non‐human samples such as murine, bacterial, fungal, and plant.
How much material do you need?
Typically we require about 50 mg of tissue weight, 2 x 106 cells in culture, or 100 uL of biofluid. For specific samples, please refer to our scientists.
How many biological replicates do you recommend?
Though we do not have any specific requirements, we typically recommend 3‐5 for cultured cells and non human tissues respectively. For human samples we suggest small pilot studies of 10-20, and larger cohorts for full studies. Pilot studies have been successfully performed with a single replicate.
How long do the analyses take?
After arrival at our lab, the analyses will be finished in 4‐8 weeks.
What can I expect to receive after the analyses are finished?
You will receive your raw data along with statistical analyses (PCA, heat map, p‐values). We also provide in depth pathway analyses and biological interpretations.
What can I do if I don’t have the proper materials/equipmentfor the extraction protocols?
Please contact our scientists. Some partially processed samples can be sent and then further processed by our lab.
Can we compare data from one experiment to another?
Yes, with our quantitative options we provide accurate concentrations of metabolites that can be directly compared to additional studies.
How can I understand the data if I’m not familiar with metabolomics?
Our team of biologists will prepare a full follow up report that includes a biological interpretation. Our biologists are dedicated to working with you even after the project is completed and are always available to answer questions.
How is HMT different from other companies?
Our platform is based on capillary electrophoresis mass spec (CE‐MS) and not LC or GC. CE-MS is best suited for small polar compounds and will provide data on a large range of metabolites that LC or GC cannot detect.
How reproducible is the CE‐MS technique?
CE‐MS has a technical error of under 5%. Any major differences detected therefore are attributed to biological error. LC typically has a technical error of up to 25%.