The Plant and Algal Lipids Interest Group aims to establish a platform for the discussion and exchange of methodologies, materials, and best practices related to mass spectrometry–based analysis of plant lipids.
Plant lipid analysis presents inherent challenges due to the extensive structural diversity of lipids and the substantial variability in lipid composition across species, as well as among tissues and organelles within a single plant. Our goal is to leverage lipidomics approaches to gain deeper insights into the regulation of these complex lipid profiles and their roles in plant function and environmental adaptation. In addition, we aim to work toward a consensus on the lipidomes of key model organisms such as Arabidopsis thaliana and important crop species including barley (Hordeum vulgare) and wheat (Triticum aestivum).
A central objective of the group is to conduct an interlaboratory (ring) trial focusing on major plant membrane lipids, particularly phospholipids and galactolipids, with participation from a broad range of plant lipidomics laboratories. To support this effort, we have brought together research groups from Europe, the United States, the United Kingdom, China, and Japan. A pre-ring trial is currently underway, involving 12 laboratories across these regions, and has already generated valuable insights that will guide the design of a robust and feasible full-scale ring trial.
Furthermore, given the limited availability of appropriate internal standards for accurate plant lipid quantification, we aim to compile a comprehensive overview of standards currently in use across plant lipidomics laboratories. In this context, we are working with Avanti Research to develop stable isotope–labeled standards tailored to the specific needs of plant lipidomics research.
Ultimately, through engagement within the ILS framework, we seek to provide the community with validated tools, harmonized methodologies, and strategic guidance that will enable meaningful cross-study comparisons and advance our collective understanding of plant lipid metabolism.
