Metabolome
The metabolome refers to the complete set of small molecules, or metabolites, present within a biological sample, such as a cell, tissue, or organism. These metabolites include sugars, amino acids, lipids, and other compounds that play crucial roles in metabolism and cellular functions. Analyzing the metabolome helps scientists understand the biochemical processes occurring in living organisms.
Studying the metabolome is essential in fields like metabolomics, which focuses on the identification and quantification of metabolites. This research can provide insights into health, disease mechanisms, and the effects of drugs or environmental changes on biological systems. Understanding the metabolome can lead to advancements in personalized medicine and biotechnology.