Time-course molecular diagnosis with fluorescent metabolomics

Metabolomes, as the biochemical foundation of the central dogma, directly reflect phenotypic changes in the human body and provide feedback across all layers of omics. However, the labor-intensive sample preparation required for mass spectrometry and the lack of spatial information in tissues hinder their broader application in biomedicine. To address these challenges, we propose fluorescent metabolomics, a novel approach that leverages the intrinsic fluorescence of metabolites in biological fluids and tissues. By analyzing fluorescence spectra and decay lifetimes at different excitation wavelengths, this method enables the differentiation of optical signals from distinct fluorescent metabolites, facilitating their semi-quantification. Unlike conventional mass spectrometry, fluorescent metabolomics allows direct, reagent-free measurements, making it particularly suitable for continuous monitoring and early detection of acute illnesses. Additionally, when combined with lifetime imaging systems, it offers spatial metabolomic insights at sub-cellular resolution, opening new avenues for advancements in precision medicine.