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.
(Scroll left/right to see full table)
| 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 panel is for Research Use Only and is not to be used for diagnostic purposes.
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 more than 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.
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.
Cosmetics companies routinely use metabolomics to better understand hair and skin profiles, develop personalized products, and evaluate product safety. Given that metabolites receive inputs from not only the genome, proteome, and microbiome, but also from external exposures, including topical and oral compounds, they provide actionable insight into how an individual will likely respond to a cosmeceutical, and how safe and effective that product is for its indication. Here, we discuss a few cases that show how metabolomics has contributed to cosmeceutical research and development.
Once you see the full value of metabolomics, the only remaining question is: who does it best? While many laboratories have metabolite profiling or analytical chemistry capabilities, comprehensive metabolomics technologies are extremely rare.
Accurate, unbiased metabolite identification across the entire metabolome introduces signal-to-noise challenges that very few labs are equipped to handle. Also, translating massive quantities of data into actionable information is slow, if not impossible, for most because proper interpretation takes two things that are in short supply: experience and a comprehensive database.
Using our robust platform and visualization tools, our experts are uniquely able to tell you more about your molecule and develop assay panels to help you zero in on the results you need.
Coverage
Ability to interrogate thousands of metabolites across diverse biochemical space, revealing new insights and opportunities
Comparability
Ability to integrate the data from different studies into the same dataset, in different geographies, among different patients over time
Competency
Ability to inform on proper study design, generate high‐quality data, derive biological insights, and make actionable recommendations
Capacity
Ability to process hundreds of thousands of samples quickly and cost‐efficiently to service rapidly growing demand
Request a quote for our services, get more information on sample types and handling procedures, request a letter of support, or submit a question about how metabolomics can advance your research.
Corporate Headquarters
617 Davis Drive, Suite 100
Morrisville, NC 27560
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 110407
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Phone
+1 (919) 572-1711
Fax
+1 (919) 572-1721
International Headquarters
Metabolon GmbH
Zeppelinstraße 3
85399 Hallbergmoos
Germany
