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Sebum Targeted Panel

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Sebum Targeted Panel

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About Sebum

Sebum is a complex mixture of lipids secreted by mature sebocytes onto the surface of the skin. Sebum may have antimicrobial, photoprotection, and vitamin delivery functions. Changes in the concentration and composition of sebum are related to acne and other skin disorders. Sebum is comprised of an unusual mix of lipid classes that is remarkably different in quantity and quality from lipids found in other organs. Major components are triglycerides, wax esters, squalene, and free fatty acids. The fatty acid composition of the complex lipids and the free fatty acid fraction is unique to human skin. Large amounts of the unusual sapienic acid (16:1n10), as well as a variety of odd and branched chain fatty acids, are present.

Metabolomics reveals biological insights otherwise unseen. For a successful metabolomics study, both small molecule discovery and the ability to dig deeper into specific biomarkers of interest are needed to uncover actionable insights that propel new therapeutic developments. A specific combination of gas or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS or LC-MS) technology and biochemical expertise is required to identify these biomarkers of interest and develop assays that are sensitive enough to explore them fully.

At Metabolon, we understand the crucial role sebum plays in skin disorders, and we’ve established best-in-class expertise to identify and quantify its lipid components. This panel focuses on specific sebum lipids and their metabolic pathways and can be used to track biomarkers and enhance biological understanding across preclinical and clinical research.

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Sebum Targeted Panel Details

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GC/MS-FAME Analysis
Lipid Class Measured Lipid Species
Total Fatty Acids 31
Saturated – Straight Chain 12:0, 13:0, 14:0, 15:0,
16:0, 17:0, 18:0, 20:0,
21:0, 22:0, 23:0, 24:0
Saturated – Branched Chain 12:0-iso, 13:0-iso,
13:0-anteiso, 14:0-iso,
15:0-iso, 15:0-anteiso,
16:0-iso, 17:0-anteiso,
18:0-iso, 19:0-anteiso,
20:0-iso, 21:0-iso,
21:0-anteiso
Unsaturated – Straight Chain 16:1n10, 18:2n10, 16:1n7,
18:2n6, 18:3n3, 18:1n10/18:1n9
FIA-MRM-MS Analysis
Lipid Class Abbreviation Number of Species
Cholesterol Esters CE 26
Diacylglycerols DAG 47
Squalene SQ 1
Triacylglycerols TAG 575
Wax Esters WE 295
Total 944
Disclaimer: This method is for Research Use Only and is not to be used for diagnostic purposes.

Delivering Absolute Quantification for Research and Biomarker Analysis

Our readily available or custom developed quantitative assays help you achieve your research and biomarker validation objectives with precise and fully validated methods. Our targeted assays and panels cover >1,000 metabolites and lipids across a wide range of biochemical classes, metabolic pathways, and physiological processes, and they can be customized to best fit any application.

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Sebum Targeted Panel Applications

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Metabolon’s technology can provide a comprehensive survey of the skin metabolome and microbiome from a range of non-invasive skin sampling options, including our proprietary sample preparation process that allows subjects to provide samples using commercially available tape strips. In addition to the Metabolon Global Discovery Panel, we can quantitatively measure hundreds of lipid analytes on our pre-existing skin lipid panels. With the ability to capture biomarkers of wound repair, UV exposure, hydration, environmental exposures, and more, our proprietary platform has helped researchers understand skin conditions as diverse as dandruff, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and aging.
Learn more about metabolomics applications for personal care product development
Personal Care & Cosmetics

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Cited in over 3,000 publications, we help scientists and manufacturers gain greater insight into their studies through metabolomics. See how our approach can become a successful part of your workflow.

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