Discovery of novel metabolites in yeast
Metabolism encompasses all the processes by which a cell generates energy and other essential molecules from nutrients. These pathways rely on hundreds of genes and involve thousands of small molecule intermediates, vitamins and cofactors. Interest in these molecules has led to development of technologies that allow high-throughput profiling of metabolic intermediates. We have optimized capillary electrophoresis methods for profiling amines, thiols and organic acids in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Using these protocols we are screening yeast mutants to determine the effects of single gene mutation on these profiles. In addition, we have recently begun profiling using GCxGC-TOF. These complementary approaches provide an systematic view of metabolites in yeast. Combining the profiles generated by our methods with available genome-wide data for protein interaction, genetic interaction and gene expression in yeast, we hope to gain a better understanding of metabolism in both yeast and humans.
