ReviewMetabolomic analysis of trypanosomatid protozoa

Metabolomics aims to measure all low molecular weight chemicals within a given system in a manner analogous to transcriptomics, proteomics and genomics. In this review we highlight metabolomics approaches that are currently being applied to the kinetoplastid parasites, Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania spp. The use of untargeted metabolomics approaches, made possible through advances in mass spectrometry and informatics, and stable isotope labelling has increased our understanding of the metabolism in these organisms beyond the views established using classical biochemical approaches. Set within the context of metabolic networks, predicted using genome-wide reconstructions of metabolism, new hypotheses on how to target aspects of metabolism to design new drugs against these protozoa are emerging.

The arrival of metabolomics technology is enabling investigators to quantify metabolites in parasitic trypanosomatids. Here we review metabolomics studies into these protozoa.141Highlights► Recent technological advances allow simultaneous identification of hundreds of metabolites. ► Metabolomics approaches are now being applied to parasitic trypanosomatids. ► Based on new information, views on the metabolic complexity of these organisms are changing.