# Inter-lab comparison of unknowns in polar metabolomics data

> **NIH NIH U2C** · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · 2021 · $391,696

## Abstract

An impediment to identification and annotation of the unknown features in untargeted
metabolomics data is the inconsistency between analytical methods and instrumentation used
by different labs. To address this challenge, we will work with other labs in the NIH
metabolomics consortium to generate an inter-laboratory dataset using consensus polar
metabolomics methods and common samples. These data will facilitate alignment and
identification of unknown features in current and future untargeted metabolomics data. Aim 1: A
working group (based on the existing ULWG and ISWG, but also welcoming additional
participants) will convene to discuss strategies to assess inter-laboratory overlap of unknown
polar metabolites in untargeted metabolomics data. We will discuss and agree upon common
samples, internal standards (to be derived from of ISWG efforts), chromatography, mass spec
parameters, and data processing methods. Aim 2: We will distribute a sample set decided upon
in Aim 1 and each participating laboratory will perform sample analysis according to the defined
methods. For comparative purposes, labs will also be requested to perform a second round of
data acquisition on the same samples using their own standard operating procedures for
untargeted polar metabolomics. Aim 3: Data from participating labs will be processed through a
common feature detection and alignment pipeline to align known and unknown features. Data
will be contributed to an unknown compound database currently under development to house
the unknown lipidomics data.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10397327
- **Project number:** 3U2CES030164-04S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- **Principal Investigator:** CHARLES ROBERT EVANS
- **Activity code:** U2C (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $391,696
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2018-08-15 → 2023-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10397327

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10397327, Inter-lab comparison of unknowns in polar metabolomics data (3U2CES030164-04S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10397327. Licensed CC0.

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