Using non-targeted mass spectrometry to identify proteomic, metabolomic and lipidomic profiles in saliva to compare the impact of prolonged vs. interrupted sitting

Abstract

Traditional sedentary physiology research focuses on targeted approaches. To explore from a new perspective, a non-targeted approach with the use of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) to assess the responsiveness of proteins and metabolites in saliva to sedentarism was employed. The study involved 24 participants that engaged in both a prolonged sitting session and an interrupted sitting session, in a randomized order. Saliva samples were collected before and after each session, including a separate baseline. Samples were purified and concentrated then analyzed on the LC-MS. A total of 2493 proteins, 17 lipids, and 11 biogenic amines were detected. 2112 proteins were significantly differentially abundant among the different session sample groups. In conclusion, prolonged sedentary behaviour of 4 hours led to a range of molecular responses that were observed through changes in the relative abundances of proteins and lipids. The results were complex and suggestive of several indicators of health deterioration.