The effect of haemolysis on the metabolomic profile of umbilical cord blood

Objectives: Metabolomics is defined as the comprehensive study of all low molecular weight biochemicals, (metabolites) present in an organism. Using a systems biology approach, metabolomics in umbilical cord blood (UCB) may offer insight into many perinatal disease processes by uniquely detecting rapid biochemical pathway alterations. In vitro haemolysis is a common technical problem affecting UCB sampling in the delivery room, and can hamper metabolomic analysis. The extent of metabolomic alteration which occurs in haemolysed samples is unknown. Design and methods: Visual haemolysis was designated by the laboratory technician using a standardised haemolysis index colour chart. The metabolomic profile of haemolysed and non-haemolysed UCB serum samples from 69 healthy term infants was compared using both ¹H-NMR and targeted DI and LC-MS/MS approach. Results: We identified 43 metabolites that are significantly altered in visually haemolysed UCB samples, acylcarnitines (n. =. 2), glycerophospholipids (n. =. 23), sphingolipids (n. =. 7), sugars (n. =. 3), amino acids (n. =. 4) and Krebs cycle intermediates (n. =. 4). Conclusion: This information will be useful for researchers in the field of neonatal metabolomics to avoid false findings in the presence of haemolysis, to ensure reproducible and credible results.