Findings
Itaconic acid is an important link between immune function and cell metabolism. Its levels rise markedly during infections and infection-related inflammation. Mesaconic and citraconic acid are naturally occurring isomers of itaconic acid of unknown function. We have developed a sensitive mass spectrometric assay for the quantification of the three isomers in cells, blood and tissue samples.
Translational significance
This method will enable us to assess the value of itaconic acid and its isomers as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of infectious diseases.