Archived News

Explore our comprehensive archive of past news, announcements, and significant milestones from the Wishart Node

Nov. 6, 2024

NSERC Awards 2024 Brockhouse Canada Prize for Interdisciplinary Research to Dr. David Wishart and Dr. Russell Greiner

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) has awarded the 2024 Brockhouse Canada Prize for Interdisciplinary Research in Science and Engineering to Dr. David Wishart and Dr. Russell Greiner for their pioneering work combining chemistry, biochemistry, and advanced computing. Their collaborative research has not only expanded the boundaries of scientific knowledge but also created practical applications that promise to shape the future of science and engineering in Canada and beyond. Explore more here: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Prizes-Prix/Brockhouse-Brockhouse/Profiles-Profils/WishartGreiner-WishartGreiner_eng.asp

Oct. 21, 2024

The TMIC Wishart Node is excited to announce its participation in the upcoming Metabolomics Association of North America (MANA) conference

The TMIC Wishart Node is excited to announce its participation in the upcoming Metabolomics Association of North America (MANA) conference to be held Oct. 21-24, 2024 in Tampa, Florida and hosted by Drs. Tim Garrett and John Koomen.Scheduled to bring together leading researchers, scientists, and professionals from academia, industry, and government, this conference will spotlight the latest advancements in metabolomics.

Oct. 2, 2024

Congratulations, Dorsa!

We are thrilled to announce the successful MSc Defense of Dorsa Yahya Rayat, who presented her groundbreaking research on "Longitudinal Monitoring of Physiological, Psychological, and Molecular Responses to Diets: A Precision Health Approach"! Dorsa's work underscores the significance of personalized nutrition in our evolving understanding of health. By integrating wearable devices, objective psychological assessments, and advanced omics methods, she has investigated how various diets influence our physiology and psychology. Her innovative research not only highlights the potential of precision nutrition to enhance individual health outcomes but also lays the groundwork for more equitable healthcare solutions. Congratulations, Dorsa! Your dedication and forward-thinking approach are truly inspiring!

Sept. 15, 2024

Dr. David S. Wishart will be a featured speaker at the International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Clinical Toxicology (IATDMCT)

We are excited to announce that Dr. David S. Wishart will be a featured speaker at the International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Clinical Toxicology (IATDMCT) annual meeting, taking place in Banff from September 15-18, 2024, at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Dr. Wishart will contribute to a session on the role of Artificial Intelligence in Toxicology, highlighting its impact and future directions in the field. This international congress will bring together TDM specialists and toxicologists from around the world, featuring an outstanding scientific program and a technology exhibition by leading IVD companies. https://iatdmct.org/events/22nd-annual-congress-of-the-iatdmct/

Aug. 15, 2024

Congratulations to Dr. David S.Wishart!

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. David Wishart has achieved a remarkable milestone in academic excellence. Last month, his research received 912 new citations, making his work the most cited from the University of Alberta. This achievement underscores the significant impact of Dr. Wishart's contributions to the field of metabolomics and beyond. Congratulations to Dr. Wishart for this outstanding accomplishment and for continuing to advance scientific knowledge through his pioneering research.

Aug. 10, 2024

Successful Metabolomics Workshop in Mexico City

Mexico City recently hosted the impactful workshop “Making Metabolomics Matter: Targeted Approaches for Translational and Precision Medicine” at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) from July 21 to 26. Organized by the TMIC Wishart Node and supported by UNU-BIOLAC , SCIEX Mexico and UNAM, the event brought together emerging researchers from across Latin America. Participants engaged in hands-on sessions using advanced analytical tools and metabolomics kits from the TMIC Wishart Node. Plenary speakers included Dr. David S. Wishart, Dr. Cristina Andres-Lacueva, Dr. Natalia Vázquez Manjarrez, and Dr. Carlos Aguilar Salinas. Special thanks to Dr. Yamile Lopez Hernandez for the initiative and for organizing the event and all involved for making this workshop a success and advancing metabolomics research.

July 10, 2024

Revolutionizing Newborn Disease Screening with 'Open SprayBot' Platform

Newborn disease screening is crucial for improving survival rates, enhancing quality of life, and reducing healthcare costs. Traditional mass spectrometry (MS) methods for metabolic screening involve complex logistics, including biofluid handling and cooling during transport, which can be challenging and costly, especially in remote areas. To address this, we have developed the 'Open SprayBot,' an innovative robotic platform designed to streamline paper-spray (PS) ionization for MS analysis. By enabling samples to be dried on paper strips and shipped through standard postal services, the Open SprayBot simplifies sample handling and reduces logistical barriers. This system, operated via RUMBA32 and Arduino Mega boards, utilizes a commercial syringe pump for solvent application and electrical current for PS-MS. The effectiveness of the Open SprayBot was demonstrated by successfully quantifying palmitoyl-l-carnitine, a key biomarker in newborn screening. This advancement promises to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of newborn metabolic screening programs globally.

Read the article here

June 24, 2024

Highlights from #MetSoc2024: Insights and Innovations from Osaka

What an incredible time we've had in Osaka Japan at this year's MetSoc2024! The conference was marked by groundbreaking research, inspiring keynotes, and invaluable networking opportunities. Dr. David Wishart delivered a compelling presentation on leveraging metabolomics to profile food-specific metabolites and discover biomarkers in clinical studies. Additionally, Dr. Yamile Lopez showcased her work with a poster on comprehensive urinary and plasmatic targeted metabolomics approaches for clinical studies in Mexico. A heartfelt thank you to all the amazing scientists, researchers, and professionals who made this event unforgettable. We eagerly anticipate the future directions and innovations our collective efforts will bring!

June 18, 2024

Exciting Expansion: Our Laboratory Achieves ISO15189 Accreditation and Launches New Clinical Services

Exciting news! Our laboratory has received ISO15189 accreditation for selected screening assays, and we're thrilled to announce the expansion of our services to clinical laboratories. We now offer targeted assays for a wide range of key metabolomic pathways, including panels for Amino Acids, Biogenic Amines, Sphingomyelins, Keto Acids, Vitamins, Indoles, Benzoic Acid, Lysophospholipids, Nucleotides and Nucleosides, Organic Acids, and Fatty Acids and their derivatives. Stay tuned as we continue to enhance our focus on clinically relevant metabolites to provide top-notch testing capabilities. For those interested in biomarker discoveries, our custom-designed panels are here to meet your needs.

May 23, 2024

Quantitative Metabolite Measurement Workshop in Full Swing: A Week of Learning and Discovery

The Quantitative Metabolite Measurement for Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Metabolomics workshop is underway at the TMIC Wishart Node in Edmonton, Alberta, from May 20-24, 2024. This 5-day hands-on course has been a fantastic experience for attendees from Europe, South Africa, Pakistan, and Brazil. Participants are engaging with a range of metabolite analysis techniques, from basic qualitative assays to complex quantitative measurements using the TMIC PRIME ASSAY. The workshop features a blend of practical and theoretical sessions, including insights from Dr. David Wishart, Dr. Lun Zhang, Dr. Jiamin Zheng, and Dr. Sindhu Nair on metabolomics fundamentals, targeted approaches, and quality control. Tomorrow's session will showcase the LC-Autofit software developed by our team. We extend our thanks to instructors Ashley Zubkowski, Abby K, Upasana Singh, and Matthew Johnson. We eagerly anticipate seeing everyone again at our next edition in 2025!

May 12, 2024

Countdown to the Quantitative Metabolite Measurement Workshop: 5 Days to Go

Excitement is building as we count down just 5 days to our Quantitative Metabolite Measurement Workshop! From May 20-24, join us at the TMIC Wishart Node, University of Alberta, for an immersive experience in clinical chemistry and metabolomics. This hands-on workshop will feature both practical and theoretical sessions, including an introduction to LC-Autofit. We’re looking forward to five days of enriching learning and collaboration with all participants. Get ready to dive deep into quantitative metabolite measurement and advance your skills in clinical metabolomics!

May 7, 2024

New Electrochemical Glucose Monitoring Platform Enhances Sensitivity and Stability

We are excited to introduce our innovative enzyme-based electrochemical glucose monitoring system, which overcomes common limitations of sensor sensitivity and performance. Utilizing a unique nanocomposite coating with the redox molecule aminoferrocene (NH2-Fc), this system improves stability and reduces nonspecific binding, as confirmed by cyclic voltammetry. Our platform provides real-time glucose detection with a linear range of 0.5 to 20 mM and a detection limit of 1 mM, validated in both plasma and saliva. This advanced technology holds significant potential for robust metabolite detection in clinical and research settings, offering a versatile solution for enhanced patient monitoring and research accuracy.

Read the article here

April 29, 2024

Highlights from the 5th Annual Canadian Metabolomics Conference

Congratulations to all participants of the 5th Annual Canadian Metabolomics Conference held in Vancouver on April 25-26. The event was a resounding success, featuring insightful discussions on the latest advancements in metabolomics and multi-omics research. A special shoutout to Abby Kropielnicki and Hayley Jackson for their compelling poster presentations. Their contributions added significant value to the conference, reflecting the vibrant and innovative spirit of the metabolomics community.

April 19, 2024

Case Report Highlights Personalized Medicine’s Role in Early Detection and Management of Pancreatic Cancer.

A recent case report underscores the transformative potential of personalized medicine in cancer diagnosis and management. The case chronicles a Canadian female patient who, through the Molecular You Corporation (MYCo) Longitudinal Multiomics Monitoring (LMOM) Program, detected a cancer-like molecular profile indicative of pancreatic cancer after experiencing persistent symptoms. Early intervention led to a successful surgical procedure, and subsequent multiomics monitoring confirmed the normalization of key cancer biomarkers. This report demonstrates how longitudinal multiomics, specifically through the TMIC PRIME assay, can effectively track disease progression and response to treatment, offering a promising approach for early diagnosis and personalized cancer care. For more details, explore the study here and discover our TMIC PRIME assay here. Additionally, our cancer panels are available for further exploration here. See the news here: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-13337289/ai-blood-test-early-stage-pancreatic-cancer.html

April 18, 2024

Join Dr. David Wishart for a Webinar on New Technologies in Targeted Metabolomics

Are you interested in targeted metabolomics? Don’t miss our upcoming webinar featuring Dr. David Wishart, where he will discuss the latest advancements in technologies and tools for targeted metabolomics. This event, hosted by LAMPS (Latin American Metabolic Profiling Society), offers a unique opportunity to gain insights from a leading expert in the field. Join us to explore cutting-edge methods and enhance your understanding of metabolomics research.

April 5, 2024

Early Detection of Mastitis in Dairy Cows: Metabolite Panels Predict SCM Risk Before Calving"

Our recent study highlights a significant advance in early mastitis detection in dairy cows, which can lead to substantial milk yield loss and culling. By employing targeted metabolomic analysis of urine samples collected 8 and 4 weeks before calving, we identified key metabolic changes associated with subclinical mastitis (SCM). Utilizing a nested case-control design with 145 multiparous dairy cows, we discovered 27 metabolites that differentiate pre-SCM cows from healthy controls. Specifically, panels of serum metabolites, including asymmetric dimethylarginine, proline, leucine, and homovanillate, showed predictive ability for SCM risk at 8 weeks prepartum (AUC = 0.88; p = 0.02) and another panel at 4 weeks prepartum (AUC = 0.88; p = 0.03). These findings suggest that metabolite testing can effectively predict SCM risk well before disease onset, offering potential for early intervention and improved management strategies. Further validation is needed to confirm these biomarkers’ practical applications in dairy farming.

Read the article here

March 8, 2024

Our Article Among Top 100 Most Downloaded in Scientific Reports for 2023

We are thrilled to share that our article has achieved significant recognition, with 14,837 downloads in 2023, ranking it among the top 100 most downloaded articles published in Scientific Reports last year. This study, which utilized a targeted metabolomics approach combining LC-MS/MS and FIA MS/MS, focused on evaluating plasma samples from long COVID patients using the MTX PRIME ASSAY. This accomplishment underscores the impact and interest in our research within the scientific community.

Read the article here

March 6, 2024

New Portable Optical Color Sensor Revolutionizes Metabolite Detection at the Point of Care

We are excited to introduce a groundbreaking advancement in metabolite detection with our low-cost, portable optical color sensor platform. Designed to overcome the limitations of expensive, bulky analytical equipment, this innovative sensor integrates LEDs, sensors, microcontrollers, a power source, and a Bluetooth chip within a compact 3D-printed case. Tested against a range of dyed water samples and established colorimetric reactions, the sensor demonstrated precise measurement of metabolites like creatinine, L-carnitine, ascorbate, and succinate, matching or surpassing the performance of standard laboratory spectrophotometers. This portable solution offers an affordable, accessible alternative for point-of-care metabolite testing, making it a valuable tool for real-time health monitoring and diagnostics.

Read the article here

Jan. 17, 2024

Study Links Glyphosate Exposure to Gut Dysbiosis and Behavioral Changes in Zebrafish

Our latest study explores the impact of glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, on gut microbiota, neurotransmitter levels, and behavior in zebrafish. Glyphosate, known for inhibiting the shikimate pathway in plants, has now been shown to cause dysbiosis in the zebrafish gut, alter central and peripheral serotonin levels, increase brain dopamine, and affect anxiety and social behavior. These effects, attributed to glyphosate's antimicrobial properties and its impact on the microbiome-gut-axis, suggest a novel mode of action and raise new questions about glyphosate's safety for humans. While further research is needed, these findings offer important insights into the potential risks associated with glyphosate exposure.

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Jan. 13, 2024

New Cannabis Compound Database Offers Comprehensive Insights into Over 6000 Chemical Constituents

In response to the growing interest in cannabis's chemical components and their physiological effects, we are excited to announce the launch of the Cannabis Compound Database (https://cannabisdatabase.ca). This new resource compiles over 6000 chemical constituents found in commercial cannabis using advanced metabolomics and bioinformatics techniques. The database integrates data from high- and low-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), gas chromatography–MS, and inductively coupled plasma–MS, alongside computer-aided text mining and genome-scale metabolic inference. It provides detailed descriptions of compounds, physicochemical data, physiological effects, protein targets, and referential spectra. This centralized, open-access database is designed to be a valuable tool for the cannabis community, offering comprehensive, up-to-date information in one accessible platform.

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Jan. 10, 2024

Urinary Metabolomics Reveals Key Metabolic Alterations in Critically Ill Newborns

Maternal infections, chronic diseases, and unexpected labor events can lead to severe perinatal outcomes with lifelong consequences. Our study used urinary metabolomics to gain insights into early physiological adaptations and metabolic disturbances in newborns. Analyzing 180 metabolites and ratios in the urine of 13 healthy and 38 critically ill newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU), we employed the TMIC Mega assay combining LC-MS/MS and FIA-MS/MS. This comprehensive analysis identified significant differences in the urinary levels of 44 metabolites between healthy and NICU newborns, including acylcarnitines, amino acids, biogenic amines, sugars, and organic acids. Notably, urinary concentrations and ranges for 37 metabolites are reported for the first time in newborns. These findings, now available in the Human Metabolome Database, highlight urine as a crucial source of information for understanding metabolic changes linked to severe perinatal conditions such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, asphyxia, and intrauterine SARS-CoV-2 exposure.

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Jan. 3, 2024

Assess Your Risk for Cardiovascular Diseases with the MTX MEGA ASSAY

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading global cause of death, claiming approximately 17.9 million lives annually. Key behavioral risk factors include poor diet, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Our MTX MEGA ASSAY offers a comprehensive assessment to determine your risk for CVDs by analyzing critical biomarkers. The assay evaluates amino acids, lipids, organic acids, biogenic amines, and microbial metabolites—such as Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Tryptophan, and Short Chain Fatty Acids—that are often found at abnormal levels in affected individuals. Discover how this advanced tool can provide valuable insights into your cardiovascular health. Explore more here: https://www.tmicwishartnode.ca/product/mtx-mega-assay-lc-ms-targeted-3?fbclid=IwY2xjawE9nztleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHQsS7_-b5lhktu44tRkTnaT2P3gP5SygE80a0TVQXqGZ3bvZi680icScOw_aem_G8UB06W3xLCDncFUmX9SiA

Dec. 14, 2023

Survey Highlights Gaps in NMR Metabolomics Reporting: Call for Standardization and Best Practices

A recent literature survey reviewed 543 papers from 2010 to 2020 to assess current practices in NMR metabolomics. Analysis of these studies revealed significant gaps, including incomplete reporting of experimental details, insufficient explanation of statistical methods, improper application of multivariate analyses, and lack of model validation. The survey also identified a wide range of protocols and software, indicating a lack of consensus and limited adoption of standardized practices. This survey aims to highlight these issues and encourage the NMR metabolomics community to develop and adhere to best practices, fostering more reliable and reproducible research outcomes.

Read the article here

Dec. 12, 2023

MTX MEGA Assay: Comprehensive Quantification of Up to 640 Metabolites Across Diverse Sample Types

We are excited to introduce the MTX MEGA Assay, a powerful tool for quantifying up to 640 metabolites and 900 metabolite ratios across various sample types including plasma, serum, urine, tissue, milk, CSF, meat, cell media, cell lysate, and cells. Requiring just 80-100 µL or 80-100 mg of sample, the assay provides detailed analysis of metabolite families such as amino acids, organic acids, biogenic amines, neurotransmitters, microbial metabolites, nucleobases, sugars, and lipids. The MTX MEGA Assay offers absolute concentration measurements and supports a wide range of applications, from cardiovascular and neurological diseases to nutritional status and microbiome research. This versatile assay enhances our ability to investigate complex metabolic profiles with precision and efficiency. Explore more here: https://www.metabolomix.ca/

Dec. 8, 2023

The Expanding Role of NMR in Metabolomics: Advances and Future Directions

Metabolomics, the study of global metabolic changes linked to various processes, utilizes platforms such as LC-MS, GC-MS, and NMR. While LC-MS has gained popularity, accounting for over 70% of metabolomics studies, NMR-based methods continue to show significant promise. In 2021 alone, PubMed recorded over 926 publications on NMR-based metabolomics—the highest number to date. This perspective explores the growing applications of NMR in metabolomics, highlights recent technological advancements, and outlines future directions for this powerful analytical technique, emphasizing its increasing value and potential for the scientific community.

Read the article here

Dec. 5, 2023

Dr. David Wishart Recognized in Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers List

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. David Wishart has been named to the Clarivate Web of Science Highly Cited Researchers list. This prestigious recognition highlights Dr. Wishart's substantial contributions to his field, among a select group of 3,793 influential scientists worldwide. The Highly Cited Researchers list celebrates those who have made significant impacts through their research, underscoring Dr. Wishart's continued excellence and influence in the scientific community.

Dec. 4, 2023

Introducing NPS-MS: Advanced Deep Learning Tool for Identifying New Psychoactive Substances Without Reference Standards

The emergence of over 1,100 new psychoactive substances (NPS) in the past decade has posed significant challenges for forensic and toxicological labs. Traditional methods for detecting NPS rely on labor-intensive and costly MS/MS reference standards, which are often unavailable for new substances. We are excited to announce NPS-MS, a deep learning method that accurately predicts MS/MS spectra from chemical structures alone. Trained via transfer learning on a vast dataset of MS/MS spectra, NPS-MS offers superior identification capabilities. It has successfully identified a novel derivative of phencyclidine (PCP) in a seized substance without reference standards. Available now at NPS-MS, this web server provides predictions and identification for approximately 8.7 million NPS compounds, enhancing forensic analysis efficiency.

Read the article here

Nov. 29, 2023

PathBank 2.0 Unveiled: Major Upgrades to Enhance Metabolite Pathway Analysis

PathBank (https://pathbank.org) and its predecessor, the Small Molecule Pathway Database (SMPDB), have been pivotal resources for the metabolomics community since 2010. With the release of PathBank 2.0, significant updates have been introduced to further enhance its utility and appeal. Key improvements include an increase in primary pathways from 1,720 to 6,951, and a rise in total pathways from 110,234 to 605,359. The update also features enhanced pathway diagrams, a focus on drug metabolism, slide- and manuscript-compatible images, and advanced tools for pathway filtering and enrichment analysis. These upgrades promise to improve user experience and expand the database’s applications in metabolomics research.

Read the article here

Nov. 27, 2023

Introducing MagMet: A Revolutionary Web Server for Automated NMR Spectral Analysis

We are excited to announce the launch of MagMet, a cutting-edge online web server designed to streamline the processing and quantification of 1D ^1H NMR spectra from human serum and plasma. MagMet simplifies the analysis of metabolites, including those linked to inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), with its user-friendly interface and high-quality interactive graphics. Developed by NMR experts, MagMet offers fast, fully automated spectral profiling and is freely available, setting a new standard for NMR-based metabolomic analysis with its ease of use and advanced features. Explore MagMet today at MagMet.

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Nov. 20, 2023

Afia Anjum Successfully Defends Thesis on Machine Learning in Compound Identification

Afia Anjum has successfully defended her thesis titled “Application of Machine Learning Towards Compound Identification through Gas Chromatography Retention Index (RI) and Electron Ionization Mass Spectrometry (EI-MS) Predictions.” Her groundbreaking research explores innovative machine learning techniques to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of compound identification in analytical chemistry. This achievement marks a significant advancement in the integration of computational methods with traditional chemical analysis. Congratulations to Afia Anjum for her exceptional work and contribution to the field.

Nov. 9, 2023

"Unveiling Long COVID: Plasma Analysis Reveals Persistent Inflammation and Metabolic Dysregulation, with a Prognostic Model Achieving 83% Accuracy"

Our recent study on post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), or long COVID, investigates plasma samples from 117 individuals during and 6 months post-infection. We found sustained inflammation, platelet degranulation, and dysregulated metabolism involving arginine, methionine, taurine, and the TCA cycle. Our prognostic model, utilizing 20 key molecules, predicts adverse clinical outcomes with 83% accuracy and an AUC of 0.96. These findings highlight distinct biological processes during convalescence and support the development of targeted therapies and biomarkers for long COVID.

Read the article here

Nov. 8, 2023

Join Us for Dr. David Wishart's Insightful Presentation on 'Building New Infrastructure for Agro-Food Informatics' at the Upcoming Conference

Don’t miss this fascinating event! Dr. David Wishart will be presenting at the conference on "Building New Infrastructure for Agro-Food Informatics". This discussion will delve into metabolomics, agriculture, and bioinformatics, exploring the latest advancements and future directions in these fields. Join us for an insightful session!

Oct. 25, 2023

Reflecting on MANA2023: Dr. David Wishart and Team Highlight Canada’s Only ISO-Certified Metabolomics Laboratory

After two days of intensive workshops at the #MANA2023 5th Annual Conference with Dr. David Wishart and our team, we are thrilled to reconnect with the vibrant network of metabolomics enthusiasts. Attendees learned why we are a top choice: we are Canada's only ISO-certified #metabolomics laboratory, led by Dr. David Wishart with 25 years of experience, and Sindhu Nair, QMS Director, ISO lead auditor, and CEO of Q Boost Inc.

Oct. 16, 2023

Explore the World’s Largest NMR Database: Join the NP-MRD Workshops at MANA2023 5th Annual Conference

Join us at the 1st workshops during the MANA2023 5th Annual Conference to explore the Natural Products Magnetic Resonance Database (NP-MRD). This comprehensive, freely available resource facilitates the deposition, distribution, and retrieval of NMR data on natural products, metabolites, and biologically derived chemicals. Since its launch in 2020, NP-MRD has swiftly become the world’s largest database in its field. Don’t miss your chance to discover its extensive features and applications.

Oct. 12, 2023

Introducing MTX: Advanced Metabolomic Kits for LC-MS, NMR, and GC-MS with ISO15189 Accreditation

Introducing MTX, a spin-off from TMIC Wishart Node, specializing in the production and sale of Metabolomic kits for LC-MS, NMR, and GC-MS. These kits facilitate the rapid and precise identification and quantification of metabolites across various applications, including studies in plants, natural products, food, and diseases. Our advanced #qualitycontrol system guarantees efficient workflows and reproducible results. Notably, #MTXMega measures up to 900 metabolites and ratios in blood and fecal samples, and up to 350 in urine. We are now accepting clinical samples with ISO15189 accreditation.

Read the article here

Oct. 3, 2023

Exploring Cannabis Metabolomics: A Comprehensive Review of Cannabinoids, Terpenoids, and Advanced Analytical Techniques

Our latest review chapter delves into cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.), a plant rich in cannabinoids and terpenoids beyond just Δ9-THC and CBD. As interest in the diverse chemical compounds of cannabis grows, metabolomics emerges as a key tool for characterizing these complex mixtures. This field leverages high-throughput analytical technologies and advanced computational methods to identify and analyze hundreds of cannabis compounds. Our chapter provides a comprehensive review of current literature, technologies, and future trends in cannabis metabolomics, highlighting the rapid expansion of data and insights in this exciting area of research.

Read the article here

Sept. 28, 2023

Revolutionizing Metabolite Conjugation: New Methods for Binding Metabolites to Gold Nanoparticles and Liposomes, Enhancing Biosensor Development

Our latest research introduces a novel method for efficiently conjugating a wide range of metabolites (acids, amines, aromatic compounds) to gold nanoparticles and liposomes, as well as incorporating metabolite-lipid complexes into liposomes. By employing comprehensive analytical and spectroscopic techniques, we confirmed the identity and composition of these conjugates. Our studies demonstrated successful binding of these conjugates to metabolite-specific antibodies, validated through ELISA and various microscopy methods. This breakthrough could significantly advance the development of metabolite biosensors and portable assays, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and health monitoring.

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Sept. 22, 2023

TMIC Wishart Node Earns ISO 15189:2012 Accreditation, Marking a Major Milestone in Clinical Analysis Excellence

TMIC Wishart Node has achieved ISO 15189:2012 accreditation, demonstrating its technical competence in clinical analysis. This significant milestone highlights our commitment to quality and excellence. Congratulations to our entire team for successfully completing this rigorous process, and special thanks to Dr. Sindhu Nair, CEO of Q BOOST INC, and her team for their pivotal role in this achievement.

Sept. 8, 2023

New Colorimetric Assay for Hippuric Acid: Enhanced Sensitivity and Speed with p-Toluenesulfonyl Chloride

We have developed a new, improved colorimetric assay for detecting hippuric acid in human urine, replacing the previous reagent PhSO2Cl with p-toluenesulfonyl chloride (p-TsCl). This method offers a simpler, faster, and more accurate detection of hippuric acid, ranging from 60 μM to 1000 μM, in just 2 minutes. It effectively handles urine background interference and shows excellent correlation (R² > 0.94) with known hippurate concentrations. This advancement promises a cost-effective, point-of-care tool for monitoring various health conditions associated with hippuric acid levels.

Read the article here

Aug. 31, 2023

Dr. Wishart to Deliver Keynote on 'Emerging 'Omics' Discoveries in Milk' at International Milk Genomics Consortium Symposium

Dr. Wishart has been invited as a Keynote Speaker at the International Milk Genomics Consortium Symposium, hosted by University College Cork, Ireland. He will present his talk, "Emerging 'Omics' Discoveries in Milk," on September 6, 2023. This presentation will highlight the latest advancements in milk genomics and their implications for the field.

July 12, 2023

Exploring the Evolution of Canadian Bioinformatics Workshops: A Conversation with Dr. Wishart and Nia Hughes

Join Dr. Wishart and Nia Hughes, Program Manager at Bioinformatics, as they delve into the history of the Canadian Bioinformatics Workshops (CBW). In their discussion, they explore the origins of the CBW, recount its challenges and successes, and outline the goals for its future. This engaging conversation offers valuable insights into the development and impact of this pivotal series of workshops in the bioinformatics field. https://youtu.be/2RukROWIpeE?si=G_yo5bAqwQHt7zf7

June 12, 2023

New Study Reveals Stability of Nucleic Acid Bases on Venus: Implications for Life's Building Blocks

Our recent study, in collaboration with MIT astrophysicist Sara Seager (pictured), has unveiled intriguing new findings about Venus. Despite its scorching surface temperatures and sulfuric acid-filled atmosphere, our research using UV and NMR spectroscopy demonstrates that some nucleic acid bases can remain stable under these harsh conditions. This discovery suggests that the chemical building blocks necessary for life might indeed exist on Venus, opening new avenues for exploring the planet's potential for life.

Read the article here

June 6, 2023

Dr. Wishart Ranked #9 in Canada for Biology and Biochemistry; TMIC Wins 2023 Biology and Biochemistry Leader Award

Dr. Wishart has been ranked #9 among the Top Scientists in Biology and Biochemistry in Canada by Research.com . Additionally, we are proud to have received the Biology and Biochemistry Leader Award for 2023 . These accolades recognize our ongoing commitment to excellence in research and innovation in the field.

June 5, 2023

Dr. Wishart Presents on 'Bioinformatics and Biomarkers' at BioNet 2023 Conference: Advancing Collaboration and Knowledge in Alberta’s B/CB Community

Dr. Wishart had the pleasure of presenting on "Bioinformatics and Biomarkers" at the BioNet 2023 Conference. The conference highlighted BioNet’s efforts in maintaining an up-to-date website with the latest news and information from Alberta’s B/CB community. BioNet also focuses on amassing and curating a comprehensive database of researchers and resources within Alberta, and serves as a vital intermediary, connecting potential collaborators who may not previously have known each other. It was an exciting opportunity to discuss advancements and foster new collaborations in the field.

June 2, 2023

University of Alberta President Bill Flanagan Tours TMIC Lab: Exploring Metabolomics Innovations and Research

We had the honor of hosting Bill Flanagan, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Alberta, for a tour of our lab. During his visit, we discussed The Metabolomics Innovation Centre (TMIC) and its pioneering research in metabolomics, particularly its applications in nutrition and clinical science. Mr. Flanagan was given an overview of our lab’s state-of-the-art equipment, services, and our contributions to the scientific community, including public databases such as hmdb.ca. It was a pleasure to showcase our work and share our commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.

May 31, 2023

Announcing CanMetCon2023: Exploring the Exposome's Impact on Health with Keynote by Dr. David S. Wishart

We are thrilled to announce #CanMetCon2023, which will spotlight #exposomics and its diverse applications in medicine, agriculture, environmental science, and clinical research. This year's conference will gather top researchers to explore how environmental exposures affect human health and to present the latest advancements in the field. Dr. David S. Wishart will deliver a presentation on "New Data and Software Resources for Characterizing the Exposome," offering key insights into emerging tools and resources. Join us to engage with cutting-edge research and drive forward the future of exposomics!

May 18, 2023

Introducing PHASTEST: Next-Generation Prophage-Finding Tool with Enhanced Speed and Accuracy

PHASTEST, the latest evolution of the PHAST and PHASTER prophage-finding web servers, is now available for rapid identification, annotation, and visualization of prophage sequences within bacterial genomes and plasmids. This advanced tool surpasses its predecessors with a 31% increase in processing speed and 2–3% greater accuracy, capable of annotating a typical bacterial genome in just 3.2 minutes from raw sequence data. PHASTEST also enhances whole genome annotation with modern visualization features, allowing users to interactively edit and view colorful, publication-quality genome maps. For more information and to access PHASTEST, visit https://phastest.ca.

Read the article here

May 5, 2023

"Watch Dr. Wishart's Interview on The Metabolomist: Insights into Metabolite Annotation and the Power of Metabolomics in Clinical Research

The video of Dr. Wishart's interview on The Metabolomist is now available! Learn about the importance of databases in metabolite annotation for data interpretation and why metabolomics is a powerful tool in clinical work: https://youtu.be/nua2upjKlDI?si=UcwvgcRrhkHc6ZXZ

April 27, 2023

Introducing PlasMapper 3.0: Advanced Web Server for Creating and Visualizing High-Quality Plasmid Ma

PlasMapper 3.0 has launched as a powerful web server for generating, editing, and visualizing high-quality plasmid maps. Building on its predecessor, PlasMapper 2.0, this advanced tool now offers features typically found in commercial software, including the ability to paste or upload plasmid sequences and access a database of over 2,000 pre-annotated plasmids. Users can annotate new plasmids, leverage interactive sequence editors, and utilize upgraded graphics to create and customize publication-ready plasmid maps. PlasMapper 3.0 is available online at https://plasmapper.ca.

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April 18, 2023

Noninvasive testing for mycophenolate exposure in children with renal transplant using urinary metabolomics

Our new article on “Noninvasive testing for mycophenolate exposure in children with renal transplant using urinary metabolomics” has been published! This research presents a novel urine test to improve kidney transplants for kids.

Read the article here

April 18, 2023

Gordin Kaplan Award

Today, Dr. Declan Ali, Chair of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta, presented the plaque for the prestigious 2022 Gordin Kaplan Award to Dr. Wishart. Our lab is honored to celebrate this success.

April 11, 2023

Would you follow a diet made specially for you by AI? Researchers in metabolomics and food science can develop tests to uncover individual’s diet preferences and create personalized plans to help you stay healthy and prevent disease: Newsweek

April 6, 2023

Join us at CanMet Con 2023 at the Prince of Wales Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake (ON) on June 15th–16th. This conference is the fourth annual event for the rapidly evolving discipline of metabolomics and this year’s theme is exposomics.

Dr. Wishart is one of many talented and acclaimed speakers who will be presenting at this conference. The conference will also host selected speakers from among their registrants, and many talk spots are still available. Researchers, professors, and students are all welcome. The early bird rate has been extended to April 15. Hurry and register to join us at CanMetCon 2023.

April 6, 2023

Dr. Wishart presented our new, custom quantitative LC-MS/MS-based assay for targeted metabolomics analysis at the MSACL 2023 Conference.

This method will increase the number of compounds in biological samples that we can get data on from around 200 to more than 1000.

March 30, 2023

Our lab is excited to welcome a new visiting researcher, Carlos Perez Lopez, a PhD student from Spain.

Carlos is using LC-MS/MS to study the effects of different wastewater treatments on the irrigation of lettuce.

March 30, 2023

Our sheep pregnancy project is developing colorimetric assays and devices to predict sheep pregnancy and litter size. We visited Olds College of Agriculture & Technology today to test our blood collection, blood separation devices, color assays and color sensors.

February 10, 2023

If you’re in the Edmonton area this Sunday, why not attend a lecture that Dr. Wishart is holding in the Strathcona County Library in Sherwood Park? It’s the first of 3 lectures in the series ‘What’s in Your Food?’ Hurry to register! Seats are limited. Go to bit.ly/3WyJo2N

February 8, 2023

The Canadian Bioinformatics Workshops are resumed for 2023. Dr. Wishart will be presenting on “Metabolomics Analysis” July 6-7 in Edmonton and on “Machine Learning” August 16-17 online. Hurry! Spaces are limited. For more info, go to https://bioinformatics.ca/workshops/current-workshops/

February 7, 2023

Since the start of 2023, several new members have joined the Wishart group and some have changed their roles. We wish to (re)welcome Danika Duval, Nikhil Bhatnagar, Leon Naing, Nathaly Dongo Mendoza, Fatma Elessawy, Sagan Giron, Varun Aggarwal, & Yuli Zhao. Welcome to the team!

January 31, 2023

The Canadian Metabolomics Conference (CanMetCon) is happening June 15-16 in beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake. Hurry! Early-bird registration closes March 15. Scan the QR code or go to

https://app.groupize.com/organizations/university-of-alberta-5ee56bd5-25a5-4b48-b9d5-4f1171a9c70f/events/tmic-conference-2023

January 30, 2023

Did you know that ~50% of Canadian dairy cattle have more than one disease between lactation periods? Can we catch this early on? See our scientific review in Dairy showing the potential of metabolomics for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mastitis: https://bit.ly/3W1LYPA

January 27, 2023

Dr. Wishart has just been awarded the J. Gordin Kaplan Award for Excellence in Research. It is the the most prestigious research award given out by the University of Alberta, and he joins a list of other distinguished scholars. Congratulations, Dr. Wishart!

https://www.ualberta.ca/research-innovation/funding-and-awards/internal-honours-prizes/j-gordin-kaplan-laureates.html

January 26, 2023

Great news! The Nucleic Acids Research Database Issue is out and has our new database: the Chemical Functional Ontology or ChemFOnt. It’s loaded with lots of data for you to view online or integrate into your own databases or analytical software. Check out the paper and database:

http://bit.ly/3HxxYb4

http://bit.ly/3wDvce0

January 26, 2023

Last week, we invited you to the seminar of one of our students: “Prediction of 1H and 13C NMR Chemical Shifts of Small Molecules Using Machine Learning”. Then she successfully defended her MSc thesis the next day. Congratulations to Zinat! Well done!

Additional keywords: metabolomics, software

January 18, 2023

Zinat, a grad student in our lab, is holding her grad student seminar titled “Prediction of 1H and 13C NMR Chemical Shifts of Small Molecules Using Machine Learning” tomorrow (Jan.19) at 1:00 pm MT. Come out and support her!

Join by Zoom

Additional keywords: metabolomics, software

December 23, 2022

The Christmas season is upon us! Our lab will be taking a much-deserved break until early January, when we will be hard at work doing metabolomics science again. We wish everyone a joyous, healthy, and prosperous holiday season and into 2023!

December 2, 2022

Are you serious about science? So are we. That’s why we have a rigorous quality management system in place. We have certifications and we are applying for more. You can rely on us to deliver quality results for you. Check out our QMS (updated page) and our services:

https://tmicwishartnode.ca/quality/

https://tmicwishartnode.ca/metabolomics-services/

Additional keywords: ISO Standards

November 17, 2022

Do you do research on natural products? The Natural Products Magnetic Resonance Database (NP-MRD) is NIH-funded and is a repository available for NMR data deposition. Check out the compounds listed and the various features that can help you in your research: http://bit.ly/3TMWPuk

November 17, 2022

Remembrance Day is when we commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy the freedoms we have. This weekend, let’s remember them & enjoy those freedoms with loved ones. Why not take the kids to the Telus World of Science-Edmonton & visit Health Zone? Look out for Dr Wishart’s contribution!

October 19, 2022

Check out the latest issue of MetaboNews, with highlights of a couple recent metabolomics conferences and a SpOtlight article featuring the Metabolomics Quality Assurance & Quality Control Consortium (mQACC). See http://www.metabonews.ca/Oct2022/MetaboNews_Oct2022.pdf

October 14, 2022

Another group member, Scott MacKay, was interviewed by TMIC for his MANA 2022 talk on the innovative technology that Tricca Technologies is developing. Can it be that metabolomics can be done in the palm of your hand? Check out https://www.tricca.ca/ and the interview at https://metabolomicscentre.ca/tmic-young-scientists/.

October 12, 2022

Want an excuse to eat chocolate? We did a scientific review and data analysis of human studies on the bioavailability and ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) of flavanols and their metabolites, the first ever done on a class of polyphenols. See our new Molecular Aspects of Medicine paper at https://bit.ly/3epWBee.

October 6, 2022

One of our group members, ABBY K., was interviewed by TMIC for winning the ECM Best Poster Award (Undergraduate) at MANA 2022. The multitalented ABBY K. also sang for conference attendees as part of the entertainment. Check out http://www.abbykmusicofficial.com/ and the interview at https://metabolomicscentre.ca/interview-with-tmic-young-scientists/.

October 4, 2022

We had a number of our spinoffs at MANA 2022, like MetabolomiX Inc., MetaSci Inc., Q Boost Inc., and Tricca Technologies Inc., to showcase their innovative products and services. Check out these and others listed at https://tmicwishartnode.ca/spin-offs/.

September 29, 2022

Tomorrow is Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Let’s reflect on the Indigenous children who never came home and how we can do better as a nation. This includes making STEM careers more accessible to the Indigenous and that starts with STEM education for their children.

September 28, 2022

Wanna know the impact of metabolomics in a box? Find out more about how the affordable point-of-care colorimeter we are developing with Dr. Susan Markus at Lakeland College can help sheep and eventually other livestock farmers save money. See https://bit.ly/3UKdgcF

Additional keywords: ranchers, biosensor

September 21, 2022

Our group had a great showing at the MANA 2022 conference, held at the University of Alberta in Edmonton this past weekend. Thanks to all the presenters, organizers, and volunteers from our group and to everyone else who contributed to making this a great event! Additional keywords: TMIC, Metabolomics Association of North America

September 20, 2022

On September 22, Dr. David Wishart will be presenting a webinar on fermentation for the Saskatchewan Food Centre. Register soon for this hybrid event! Go to bit.ly/3UuMmFt or scan the QR code below.

September 16, 2022

MANA 2022 is underway. Participants started arriving yesterday. Our lab is excited to make several presentations. We hope everyone has a great time sharing their scientific discoveries, connecting/reconnecting with each other, and enjoying Edmonton. Additional keywords: TMIC, Metabolomics Association of North America

September 14, 2022

Ever wonder if your pet, or you, might have parasites? Global toxocariasis incidence is raising alarm bells. Our Biomolecules study of the Toxocara canis excretory/secretory metabolome sheds some light on this infection. Our tools and databases (like MetaboAnalyst and HMDB) were used. Check it out: https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/10/8/1157.

September 8, 2022

Obesity is a growing global public health problem, starting even in childhood. What if we could find clues early on? Our study in the International Journal of Obesity shows connections during infancy between breastfeeding, gut microbiome, and body mass index (BMI).

Check it out here.

September 1, 2022

We were at the Lakeland College Livestock Research Day. We’re working with Dr. Susan Markus to develop a portable, affordable, point-of-care biosensor to predict sheep pregnancy and litter size based on metabolites in sheep serum. No need to send to a lab!

Check it out here.

August 30, 2022

We are counting down the days for when MANA 2022 begins.

Get your bags and your mind ready. Only 17 more sleeps!

August 26, 2022

Check out the August issue of MetaboNews, with news, events, publications, job postings, and featuring The Metabolomist podcast.

August 25, 2022

We were at the AgSmart event at Olds College, where we demonstrated our ArmChair Rancher app that is in development. The app combines deep data and machine learning to help ranchers make better-informed decisions. Thanks to Beefbooster Inc. and Livestock Gentec for your partnership and support!

August 18, 2022

Two days ago, we told you about our ulcerative colitis study. Guess what, we use our own metabolomics assays and equipment to do our studies, and we can do the same for you. For example, LC-MS targeted metabolomic analysis is useful for plasma, serum, urine, tissue, milk, CSF, meat, cell media, cell lysate, and cells.

We’d love to contribute to your research success. Check out our services.

August 16, 2022

Could an anti-inflammatory diet (e.g., Mediterranean diet) help with ulcerative colitis? Our research has shown simple changes can make a difference and prevent inflammation for UC patients in remission.

See our new paper in Nutrients.

August 11, 2022

Did you know that TMIC offers a free Research Hotel program? Since 2011, experts at TMIC, including the Wishart Node, have trained nearly 70 students, PDFs, professors, and industry professionals from >20 countries in metabolomics and bioinformatics. Check it out.

See our new paper in Nutrients.

August 9, 2022

One of our funding partners, Genome Canada, has just released their annual report: “Future of Genomics”.

Check out their future direction based on a challenge-driven approach.

August 3, 2022

The deadline for poster abstract submissions for the MANA 2022 conference has been extended until August 5 at 11:59 pm MT.

For more info and to submit your poster abstract, go here.

July 28, 2022

Registered for the MANA 2022 conference in Edmonton on September 16-18 yet?

We have a lineup of excellent speakers and we’re even presenting an interactive forum “Wine and Beer Tasting for Metabolomics”.

Learn more & register here.

July 26, 2022

Our new paper in Gates Open Research is about multiomics study methods used in a multi-site collab to understand and therefore be able to reduce childhood mortality in low- and middle-income countries.

Check it out here.

July 22, 2022

Ever wonder how various instruments can be used in the field of metabolomics?

Hover over each instrument on the Equipment page of our website for a brief explanation of how each instrument is useful for sample analysis.

July 19, 2022

Metabolomics data is subjected to many methodological steps that can affect performance of resulting metabolomic classifiers. Check out our analysis of various approaches for predicting renal transplant rejection in Statistics In Medicine.

July 18, 2022

The July issue of MetaboNews will be published tomorrow and it includes an important note from the President of The Metabolomics Society. Watch for it!

Don’t want to miss an issue? Subscribe here.

July 11, 2022

Dr. Wishart is going to give a talk at the Frontiers in Metabolomics Workshop hosted by the Telluride Science Research Centre. The workshop takes place July 25-29, 2022. Check out the workshop details here.

July 8, 2022

Congratulations to the founders of MetabolomiX Inc.: Galina Durant, David Wishart, Jiamin Zheng, Lun Zhang, Rupasri Mandal for being awarded an Innovation Award from the University of Alberta. The company is focused on the production and sale of kits that enable rapid sample testing for the chemical fingerprints resulting from metabolism. Check out their website here.

July 6, 2022

The CFM-ID 4.0 web server (https://cfmid.wishartlab.com) is an online tool for predicting, annotating, and interpreting tandem mass spectra (MS/MS) of small molecules. It is specifically designed to assist researchers pursuing studies in metabolomics, exposomics, and analytical chemistry. Read the article here.

March 17, 2022

Q Boost, a Wishart Node spin-off company that has developed an efficient lab quality management system, was recognized with an award by the University of Alberta for its success in its first year of business!

March 17, 2022

Folio published an article about cancer research revealing evidence that shows cancer treatment and prevention is about much more than genetics alone.

Many news agencies including CTV morning news and 630 CHED radio have followed the story and shared it with their audiences.

February 16, 2022

Telus World of Science – Edmonton is unveiling a new exhibit in the Allard Family Gallery entitled Health Zone. The exhibit explores factors that affect each person’s health. Visit the gallery and look for Dr. Wishart’s contribution to the exhibit.

November 15, 2021

The drug scene is constantly changing and law enforcement struggles to keep up with the newest designer drugs. Read about our work in the area to identify these drugs using a deep machine learning approach in Nature Machine Intelligence and that can also be applied to other small molecules in metabolomics.

November 15, 2021

The Wishart Lab (University of Alberta), Western University, and the Lawson Health Research Institute conducted a study that identified biomarkers that could be used in a quick, inexpensive COVID-19 blood screening tool. Read the article published in Critical Care Explorations and listen to the Q&A podcast featuring Dr. Wishart.