Abstract: Described herein are automated and customizable sample preparation and analysis systems for detection and quantification of biomarkers (e.g., metabolites and/or lipids) in biological samples (e.g., blood, serum, or plasma) in a clinical setting. The automated systems are controlled by scripts that integrate communication between the components of the sample preparation system. Also described herein are mass spectrometry-based analytical methods featuring efficient system calibration and sample analysis that provide for accurate quantification of a set of markers in biological samples. The methods are capable of automatic high sample throughput in a clinical setting for detection and quantification using a mass spectrometry system and high performance liquid chromatography column.

Abstract: Described herein are sets of metabolite and lipid (e.g., fatty acid) markers that can be used in the detection of early stage colorectal cancer and/or early development of adenomatous polyps. Presented herein are illustrative pathology-linked panels. In certain embodiments, the markers presented herein (or subsets thereof) are used as a panel for detecting either colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps at the same time. The markers presented herein include metabolites and lipids (e.g., fatty acid) freely detectable and accurately quantifiable in human serum. In certain embodiments, the sample may be plasma, urine, saliva, whole blood, dried blood spot or dried serum spot.

Abstract: Described herein are automated and customizable sample preparation and analysis systems for detection and quantification of biomarkers (e.g., metabolites and/or lipids) in biological samples (e.g., blood, serum, or plasma) in a clinical setting. The automated systems are controlled by scripts that integrate communication between the components of the sample preparation system. Also described herein are mass spectrometry-based analytical methods featuring efficient system calibration and sample analysis that provide for accurate quantification of a set of markers in biological samples. The methods are capable of automatic high sample throughput in a clinical setting for detection and quantification using a mass spectrometry system and high performance liquid chromatography column.