The use of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS)-based metabolomics in environmental exposure assessment

The environment has many anthropogenic chemicals which, in sublethal concentrations, can alter the biochemical function of organisms. Environmental metabolomics uses analytical techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS) to uncover how the presence of environmental contaminants may alter the metabolic profile of organisms. Metabolomic experiments follow a typical workflow and can be applied to a gamut of organisms and contaminants or other environmental stressors. Following sublethal exposure, metabolic shifts and the contaminant toxic mode of action can be elucidated. Environmental metabolomics is a useful tool in ecotoxicology and may have a future role within environmental risk assessment strategies.