Integrating untargeted and targeted LC-MS-based metabolomics to identify the serum metabolite biomarkers for tuberculosis

Given the limitations of untargeted metabolomics in precise metabolite quantification, our current research employed a novel approach by integrating untargeted and targeted metabolomics utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS) to analyze the metabolic profile and potential biomarkers for tuberculosis (TB). A cohort of 36 TB patients and 36 healthy controls (HC) was enlisted to obtain serum samples. Multivariate pattern recognition and univariate statistical analysis were employed to screen and elucidate the differential metabolites, whereas dot plots and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were established for the identification of potential biomarkers of TB. The results indicated a distinct differentiation between the two groups, identifying 99 metabolites associated with five primary metabolic pathways in relation to TB. Of these, 19 metabolites exhibited high levels of sensitivity and specificity, as evidenced by the area under curve values approaching 1. Following targeted quantitative analysis, three potential metabolites, namely, L-asparagine, L-glutamic acid, and arachidonic acid, were demonstrated excellent discriminatory ability as evidenced by the results of the ROC curve, dot plots, and random forest model. Particularly noteworthy was the enhanced diagnostic efficacy of the combination of these three metabolites compared to singular biomarkers, suggesting their potential utility as serum biomarkers for TB diagnosis.