Work

Protocol for metabolite extraction and sample preparation from primary astrocytes for mass spectrometry-based metabolomic analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Astrocytes play essential roles in supporting neuronal function, particularly through the regulation of brain energy metabolism. In response to physiological and pathological stimuli, astrocytes dynamically adjust their metabolic pathways and energy output. Here, we present a protocol for metabolite extraction and sample preparation from primary astrocytes for mass spectrometry analysis. We describe steps for integrating astrocyte culture and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) metabolite analysis to enable reproducible profiling of astrocytic energy metabolism under different experimental conditions. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Chang et al. 1

Source: STAR Protocols

DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2026.104491

Authors: Ya-Gin Chang, Gong-Min Lin, Chih-Yu Lin, Yijuang Chern

Institutions: Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Academia Sinica, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica

Language: English

Topic: Metabolomics and Mass Spectrometry Studies

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,550