Integrating tracer-based metabolomics data and metabolic fluxes in a linear fashion via Elementary Carbon Modes

► A novel framework to determine fluxes via tracer-based metabolomics data is presented. ► The underlying linearity is the main ingredient in our novel set of constraints. ► This feature enables an easy integration with constraint-based modeling. ► Our approach reduces the under-determination in constraint-based modeling. ► Linearity presents advantages at the computational and theoretical level.