Precision Mapping of Cellular Metabolism Using 13C Tracers

While metabolomics provides a snapshot of metabolite levels, ¹³C Metabolic Flux Analysis (MFA) captures the dynamic flow of carbon through intracellular pathways. By feeding cells with ¹³C-labeled substrates and measuring labeling patterns in downstream metabolites, MFA precisely quantifies reaction fluxes across central metabolic networks such as glycolysis, the TCA cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway.

At Clarity Bio Systems, we combine high-precision LC/GC-MS isotopologue profiling with advanced flux modeling to generate quantitative flux maps, complete with confidence intervals. Our approach integrates extracellular exchange data with isotope tracing to provide deep, system-level insights into metabolic regulation, rewiring, and efficiency.

For validating engineered strains, optimizing cell cultures, and understanding metabolic regulation under dynamic conditions, MFA enables rigorous, quantitative understanding of pathway usage and metabolic constraints.