Mapping metabolism using stable isotope tracers in combination with mass spectrometry imaging
TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, vol. 196, pp. 118679
Abstract
Stable isotope tracing combined with mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) offers a powerful framework for spatially and temporally resolved analysis of metabolic activity, enabling visualization of labeled metabolites at cellular and subcellular resolution. This approach provides insights into the spatial organization and dynamics of metabolic pathways such as glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and amino acid metabolism under both physiological and pathological conditions. However, its implementation remains technically challenging due to spectral complexity, limited spatial quantification methods, and the need for meticulous sample preparation and data processing. This review defines key considerations for integrating isotope tracers with MSI, including tracer selection, administration strategies across biological model systems, and current MSI platform capabilities. It also covers interpretation of isotopic labeling patterns and emerging experimental designs for mapping metabolic activity. By consolidating recent advances and identifying ongoing challenges, this review outlines the evolving role of MSI-based isotope tracing in spatial metabolomics.
Authors 4
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Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Ton J. Rabelink Aachen Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine Department of Internal Medicine
Leiden University · Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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