Overview

The Quantitative Metabolite Analysis Center (QMAC), part of the UCSF Collaborative Laboratory (CoLab) Plug-in, is a comprehensive metabolomics hub located at the Parnassus campus. It is equipped with advanced mass spectrometry tools for both targeted and untargeted metabolomics. These platforms support research aimed at predicting disease, understanding disease phenotypes, exploring biochemical mechanisms in health and disease, and discovering new drugs and drug targets.

QMAC team
QMAC team3

QMAC provides facilities for sample preparation and chemical extractions, including chemical storage, fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and cell culture incubators. Services offered by the center include study design, sample preparation, chemical extractions, LCMS operation, method development, and data analysis. Researchers can also benefit from consultations and training in designing metabolomics workflows and analyzing data. Frequent users of QMAC may become trained designated users, gaining independent access to the instruments.

Services

Targeted Panel Assays

LCMS-TQMS based Quantification Assay

sciex7500
SCIEX 7500 QTrap MS

QMAC’s instrumentation includes hybrid triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometers, such as the SCIEX 6500 QTRAP and SCIEX 7500 QTRAP, which are ideal for high-throughput metabolite quantification and identification. Below is a list of panels we have developed so far. Link to the full list can be downloaded from here.

  1. Amino Acids and related compounds
  2. Eicosanoids
  3. NAD+/NADH
  4. S-Geranylgeranyl-L-glutathione and metabolic derivaties
  5. Methotrexate and metabolic derivatives

thermo orbitrap
Thermo Orbitrap Exploris 240 GCMS

GCMS-Orbitrap based Quantification Assay

GCMS is a new addition to the core, and we're actively developing methods for short-chain fatty acids. If you have questions about method details or instrument availability, please feel free to contact us.

 

 

 

 

Untargeted Metabolite Profiling

For qualitative exploration and high-resolution experiments, the SCIEX TripleTOF 6600+ platform offers accurate mass and tandem mass spectrometry capabilities, enabling comprehensive detection and identification of metabolites across diverse biological systems.


Metabolomics

We offer global, unbiased profiling of small molecules - ranging from polar to mid–non-polar compounds - to capture the biochemical state of cells, tissues, or biofluids. This enables researchers to discover novel biomarkers, characterize metabolic pathways, and compare metabolic signatures across experimental groups.

sciex6600
SCIEX 6600+ QToF MS

Lipidomics

Specialized workflows enable detailed analysis of lipid classes and species with high mass accuracy and sensitivity. Our lipidomics platform supports studies on membrane biology, energy metabolism, and disease-related lipid dysregulation.


Isotope Tracing Analysis

Stable isotope-labeled substrates can be tracked to monitor dynamic metabolic fluxes. This approach reveals pathway utilization, turnover rates, and substrate channeling, providing deep insights into cellular metabolism under physiological and pathological conditions.


Advanced Statistical Analysis

Comprehensive data processing and multivariate statistical tools are applied to extract biologically meaningful patterns. We offer support for interpretation, visualization, and integration of metabolomics datasets with other omics platforms. For further information, please consult Dr. Lu Yang.

 

High-Throughput Panel Assay Development

We are dedicated to creating custom panels tailored to the unique needs of our investigators. Our team works closely with researchers to design assays that address specific biological questions, ensuring sensitivity, reproducibility, and scalability.


QMAC In-house MS Library

QMAC has developed a comprehensive compound library sourced from a wide range of materials, enabling us to deliver high-precision and robust data analysis for both targeted and untargeted studies. A full list of compounds in our library can be downloaded here.


Semi-Automated MS Library Build Workflow

QMAC established semi-automated workflow to streamline library build and assay setup, reducing variability and increasing throughput. This system allows rapid optimization and standardization of assay conditions, ensuring reliable and reproducible results.

QMAC Library Build
QMAC High-Throughput Library Build Workflow

 

MALDI Strain Identification

A Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight (MALDI) spectrometer (Biotyper sirius CA System) enables detection of metabolites in non-liquid matrices, including feces or solid tumors. 

 

bruker biotyper
Bruker MALDI Biotyper
Small Equipment Access

QMAC offers access to a variety of small instruments available in our lab. Please see below for descriptions and availability. If you're interested in using any of the equipment, feel free to reach out to Jacob Brockert.


centrivap

Labconco Refrigerated CentriVap Vacuum Concentrator

This concentrator is designed to rapidly concentrate multiple small, heat-sensitive samples. It is equipped with a -105°C cold trap to enhance efficiency.

 


Labconco FreeZone Triad Benchtop Freeze Dryer

This unit supports both stoppering tray drying and sample freeze drying, with four sample valves. It allows for the simultaneous processing of both freeze-drying types.

 


eppendorf_5910ri

Eppendorf Centrifuge 5910 Ri

This unit is a refrigerated, high-capacity, multipurpose centrifuge equipped with rotors suitable for a wide range of applications.

 


Equipment Availability Calendar

View is available here

Super-User Training Program

This training program is designed for advanced users who wish to gain independent access to our instruments with maximum scheduling flexibility and minimal supervision. Superusers are trusted and proficient operators who understand not only the technical use of the equipment but also the lab’s safety and data quality standards.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Ju Eun Jeon, or find more details here

Pricing Structure

Below is a summary of our approved recharge rates, effective July 1, 2025.

Note: The pricing listed below reflects our current rates, but it is subject to change. Pricing is adjusted semi-annually and cannot be guaranteed. For projects scheduled to begin more than three months after a quote is generated, we recommend adding a 10–15% pricing buffer to account for potential increases in service costs. Final pricing will be determined at the time the work is completed by the facility.

 
Services:Units:Internal
Rates:
External* NFP
Rates:
External** FP
Rates:
Metabolite Extraction (stool/tissue)each$41.90$52.79$58.07
Metabolite Extraction (biofluid/cells)each$28.90$36.41$40.05
Lipid Extraction (stool/tissue)each$40.97$51.63$56.79
Lipid Extraction (biofluid/cells)each$27.97$35.25$38.77
LCMS Profiling Mx Untargetedeach$122.53$154.39$169.83
LCMS Profiling Mx Targetedeach$104.82$132.07$145.27
LCMS Profiling Lx Untargetedeach$138.18$174.10$191.51
LCMS Profiling Lx Targetedeach$85.73$108.02$118.83
Trained User Hourly Rate, Targetedper hour$96.71$121.86$134.05
Trained User Hourly Rate, Lipidomics Targetedper hour$74.58$93.97$103.36
Experimental Design/Trainingper hour$175.95$221.70$243.87
Analysisper hour$170.16$214.40$235.84
Jr. Technician Prep Timeper hour$67.18$84.65$93.11
Sr. Technician Prep Timeper hour$162.46$204.69$225.16
MALDI 30minper half hour$50.75$63.94$70.34
Trained User, MALDI 30minper half hour$32.79$41.31$45.44
Special Consumablespass-throughat cost plus 1.4% iLabs fee at cost plus 28% at cost plus 40%

* Includes 26% Facilities and Administration Rate

** Includes 10% Surplus Revenue and 26% Facilities and Administration Rate

Meet our team

Darren Dumlao, PhD
Assistant Director

Jacob Brockert
Assistant Specialist

Lu Yang, PhD
Computational Biologist

Next Steps

To discuss new or ongoing projects, submit a Request Project Support form on iLab and schedule a 30-minute consultation with Dr. Darren Dumlao, Assistant Director (login is required to access the schedule). Please note that consultations are charged via an hourly rate.

Ready to get started? Submit a request on iLab.

 

Leadership
Funding