Welcome to the Small Molecule Biomarker Core (SMBC)
The SMBC is a resource of the Clinical and Translational Science Institute (ctsi). Our services will provide quantitative analysis in clinical samples, with or without sample processing, using state-of-the-art instrumentation such as UPLC/MS/MS. The highly sensitive and specific techniques employed will allow the clinician to accurately measure multiple biomarkers in the same sample, maximizing the ability to link basic science with clinical outcomes. Current methods available from the core are listed below.
Arachidonic Acid Panel - 1
Mono-oxygenated metabolites of arachidonic acid make up this panel. These metabolites are formed via the cytochrome P450 and lipoxygenase pathways and have been implicated in various inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases.
Arachidonic Acid Panel - 2
Several prostaglandins make up this panel. These metabolites are formed via the cyclooxygenase pathway and have been implicated in various inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases
Endocrine Panels
Nicotine/Cotinine
The highly sensitive technique employed allows for the detection of residues of second-hand smoke in blood and tissue samples.
Vitamin D Metabolite Panel
The Vitamin D2 and D3 families affect calcium homeostasis and are implicated in many chronic diseases such as cancer, hypertension and cardiac disease. Analysis of the 25-hydroxy-D2 and D3 metabolites is the first step in assessing patient Vitamin D status. Planned future additions to the panel include D2 and D3 residues upstream and downstream from the 25-hydroxy compounds.
ADMA Analysis
Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is a naturally occurring component of human plasma. It inhibits the synthesis of nitric oxide and many researchers today agree that ADMA may play a role in the progression of cardiovascular disease. An assay has been validated to detect ADMA in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
N-acetylaspartate Analysis
N-acetylaspartate is employed as a biomarker for neuronal integrity in the CNS.
Drug Analysis
Most drugs on this list are either substrates for cytochrome P450 isoforms or various transport proteins. As such, they serve as biomarkers for enzyme activity and pharmacokinetic processes
Attribution
The Small Molecule Biomarker Core Pittsburgh should be acknowledged in all publications, posters and presentations. Please include the following statement in the acknowledgement section: This project used the University of Pittsburgh Small Molecule Biomarker Core [insert name/s] service/s.