Quantum Sensing in Metabolomics

Metabolomics, the comprehensive study of small-molecule metabolites in biological systems, has emerged as a pivotal tool for understanding physiological processes, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic responses. However, conventional analytical methods such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS) often face challenges in sensitivity, resolution, and detection of low-abundance metabolites within complex biological matrices. Quantum sensing, leveraging quantum phenomena such as spin coherence, entanglement, and superposition, offers a transformative approach to overcome these limitations. In particular, nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond and other quantum-based platforms enable ultrasensitive, label-free detection at nanomolar to picomolar concentrations, even in heterogeneous samples. These technologies can enhance spectral resolution, allow real-time metabolite monitoring, and potentially facilitate in vivo applications without perturbing biological systems. This chapter outlines the principles of quantum sensing, its integration into metabolomics workflows, current experimental advancements, and prospective clinical applications. By bridging quantum technologies with systems biology, quantum-enhanced metabolomics holds the potential to revolutionize biomarker discovery, personalized medicine, and early disease diagnostics.