The metabolome consists of a collection of biomolecules present in cells, tissues, or body fl uids in a certain moment or physiological situation. It refl ects an individual’s genetic background and is modulated by environmental factors such as diet and physical activity. Metabolomics is the comprehensive study of the entire metabolome, made possible due to advances in the areas of mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance, allowing the systematic investigation of the metabolome in various biological specimens. Metabolic profi les generated through metabolomic approaches can offer insights into pathophysiological mechanisms associated with nutrient dependent dysfunction or disease and targeted therapeutic approaches. Image supplied by Philip Newsholme and Rodrigo Carless