Yenepoya University, Mangalore
Bridging Gaps in Metabolomics: Advancements in Bioinformatics Technologies and Skill Development at Yenepoya University, Mangalore
The Bioinformatics Center at Yenepoya University, Mangalore focuses on overcoming bottlenecks within various aspects of metabolomics, including the development of algorithms and data analysis tools to enhance compound identification and the creation of the Metabolite Reference Database. The center actively disseminates knowledge and technologies through a variety of workshops and training programs.
The central objectives involve the development of a comprehensive metabolite training dataset sourced from both in-house and public repositories. Leveraging machine learning techniques for metabolite identification, the center aims to create the MS2Compound tool and establish an encyclopedia-like Metabolite Reference Database. Moreover, the center strives to nurture highly skilled specialists and technicians in the field of metabolomics.
The center has successfully developed the MS2Compound tool, enabling
metabolite identification at the MS2 level, and has cataloged metabolites from traditional Indian medicines. The center has also standardized metabolite extraction and data acquisition methods for cell lines, tissue, serum, and urine. It conducted impactful workshops, symposia, and invited lectures, effectively raising awareness and engaging experts in metabolomics. Notably, workshops focused on mass spectrometry-based
metabolomics for VCRC scientists and featured renowned speakers including Dr. Ashok Giri. A symposium on cardiovascular metabolomics drew international scientists, facilitating discussions and showcasing diverse metabolomics projects by students.
Equipped with high-end mass spectrometers such as QTRAP 6500 and Orbitrap Fusion for metabolomics data acquisition, the center also benefits from access to an 1800-bed hospital associated with the university, providing valuable patient samples.
The center has collaborated with distinguished NNP partners, each known for their specialized expertise. These partners include the ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, recognized for their exceptional work in vector-borne diseases. Additionally, the CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory PUNE brings expertise in dissecting metabolite pathways, while Savitri Bai Phule University Pune hosts skilled bioinformaticians and proficient big data analysts. Furthermore, the Siddganga Institute of Technology, Tumakuru, is proficient in bioinformatics and advanced big data analysis. These alliances significantly augment the center's comprehensive approach to pioneering research in metabolomics.
