Abstract
Prior to implementation of volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis in clinical practice, substantial challenges, including methodological, biological and analytical difficulties are faced. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of several sampling conditions and environmental factors on fecal VOC profiles, analyzed by an electronic nose (eNose). Effects of fecal sample mass, water content, duration of storage at room temperature, fecal sample temperature, number of freeze–thaw cycles and effect of sampling method (rectal swabs vs. fecal samples) on VOC profiles were assessed by analysis of totally 725 fecal samples by means of an eNose (Cyranose320®). Furthermore, fecal VOC profiles of totally 1285 fecal samples from 71 infants born at three different hospitals were compared to assess the influence of center of origin on VOC outcome. We observed that all analyzed variables significantly influenced fecal VOC composition. It was feasible to capture a VOC profile using rectal swabs, although this differed significantly from fecal VOC profiles of similar subjects. In addition, 1285 fecal VOC-profiles could significantly be discriminated based on center of birth. In conclusion, standardization of methodology is necessary before fecal VOC analysis can live up to its potential as diagnostic tool in clinical practice.
Highlights
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are carbon-based, organic chemicals that can be perceived by olfactory sense
We observed that several environmental factors and sampling conditions significantly influenced fecal volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles
VOC profiles obtained by sampling with a rectal swab differed from VOC profiles of fecal samples
Summary
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are carbon-based, organic chemicals that can be perceived by olfactory sense. Much effort has been carried out within the technical field of VOC detection. In 1982, an artificial nose imitating the mammalian olfactory system was introduced [1]. This instrument consisted of three different metal-oxide gas sensors and allowed for accurate discrimination between VOC profiles of complex gaseous mixtures [1]. Major advances in nanotechnology, computer software, and material of sensors have facilitated the implementation of eNose devices in a variety of industries, including cosmetics, food, military, pharmaceutical and agricultural industry [2].
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