Effect of salt concentration on separation patterns in static capillary isoelectric focusing with imaging detection

Salts introduced into protein samples have an impact on the pH gradient in free solution in isoelectric focusing (IEF), which is reflected by the separation pattern. In this study, samples containing different concentrations of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) were focused in capillary format and detected in a real-time mode using an imaged capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF) system at 280 nm. It was observed that salt compressed the pH gradient with a degree of 4.3% at a PBS concentration interval of 10 mM. As a result, the same sample components, therefore, were focused at different positions inside the capillary. Using two pI markers as the internal standards, the separation patterns in the presence of salts were corrected to the salt-free matrix by simply stretching the electropherograms. The stretched electropherograms of model samples, pI markers and myoglobin, demonstrated the feasibility of this correction. This simple method is promising for identifying proteins, which may exhibit different pI values after their mutation and stability process, when salt is present in the sample.

Time-weighted average sampling with solid-phase microextraction device: implications for enhanced personal exposure monitoring to airborne pollutants

The solid-phase microextraction (SPME) device is used as a time-weighted average (TWA) sampler for gas-phase analytes by retracting the coated fiber a known distance into its needle housing during the sampling period. Unlike in conventional spot sampling with SPME, the TWA sampling approach does not allow the analytes to reach equilibrium with the fiber coating, but rather they diffuse through the opening in the needle to the location of the sorbent. The amount of analytes accumulated over time gives the measurement of the average concentration to which the device was exposed to. Depending on the sorbent used as the sink, TWA sampling for various analytes is possible with times ranging from 15 min to at least 16 h. Both the poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) and poly(dimethylsiloxane)/divinylbenzene (PDMS/DVB) fiber coating phases were tested, with the latter employing on-fiber derivatization for reactive carbonyl compounds, e.g., formaldehyde. Described herein are the theoretical and practical considerations for using the SPME device as a TWA sampler.

Capillary isoelectric focusing with whole column imaging detection for analysis of proteins and peptides

Whole column imaging detection has been developed for capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF) of proteins and peptides. In this imaged C1EF technique, a solution of sample and ampholytes was introduced into a short (4-5 cm), internally coated capillary stabilized by a cartridge. After applying high DC voltage, the isoelectric focusing process takes place and the focused zones are monitored in a real-time mode using the imaging detectors developed. Three types of imaging detectors have been developed including refractive index gradient, laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), and absorption. Of these, absorption imaging detection is the most practical at the present time due to its quantitative ability and universal characteristics. Whole column imaging detection eliminates the mobilization step required for single point detection after the focusing process. Therefore, it provides a fast analysis speed (3-5 min for each sample), and avoids the disadvantages associated with the mobilization process, such as distortion of pH gradient and loss in resolution. In this paper, we review the methodology of imaged CIEF as well as progress in instrumental development, IEF performed on a microchip, and the application to protein and peptide analysis.

Electrospray mass spectrometry of trimethyllead and triethyllead with in-tube solid phase microextraction sample introduction

A study of positive ionization electrospray mass spectrometry (ES-MS) was performed on trimethyllead (TML) and triethyllead (TEL). The system consisted of in-tube solid phase microextraction (SPME) coupled directly to an electrospray mass spectrometer. Fragmentation patterns of compounds were observed by applying different fragmentation voltages. High voltages produced sufficient fragmentation to elucidate the dissociation of the trialkyllead compounds. Electrospray mass spectrometry has been shown to be a suitable detection system for organolead speciation. Applying fragmentation energy programming, it might be possible to obtain in parallel the molecular and atomic signals of lead compounds. Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Recent developments in capillary isoelectric focusing with whole-column imaging detection

Capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF) is a high resolution technique for protein separation. The on-column single point detector requires a mobilization step which lengthens the analysis time and causes an uneven resolution along the separation column. The real time and whole column imaging detection has been developed for performing CIEF without mobilization. Three types of imaging detection systems have been developed: optical absorption, refractive index gradient, and laser induced fluorescence. This technique provides a fast analysis speed (about 6 min) and a good resolution of 0.03 pH unit level. Using the absorption imaging detector, ampholyte-free IEF in tapered capillary is being demonstrated, which eliminates the interference of the expensive carrier ampholytes for protein detection in UV region. Recent advancements in this imaged CIEF technique as well as its applications are reviewed.

Effect of sample volume on quantitative analysis by solid-phase microextraction. Part 1. Theoretical considerations

This paper discusses the effect of sample volume on the amount of analyte extracted from a sample by solid-phase microextraction (SPME) in two-phase (sample-fiber coating) and three-phase (sample-headspace-fiber coating) systems. Up-to-date knowledge is summarized, and new concepts are introduced. The effect of sample volume on quantification and precision of results can be neglected only in rare cases. The minimum sample volume which ensures that the amount extracted, n, is lower than 1% of the initial amount of the analyte present in the sample, as well as the volume for which exactly half of the initial amount of the analyte is extracted, have been calculated for both two- and three-phase systems. It is critical that the volumes of samples and standards are the same during analysis by SPME. Extraction kinetics in headspace analysis is dependent on the headspace capacity. If it is sufficiently large, the analyte is extracted almost exclusively from the gaseous phase, and equilibration can be very fast. On the other hand, this causes a significant loss of sensitivity. The effect of sample volume on the determination of the value of the partition coefficient, K, is also discussed. If the change in concentration of the analyte in the sample at equilibrium is not taken into account, erroneous results are obtained. Even when a proper procedure is used, there are practical limitations to the accuracy of the K value determination. Large sample volumes should always be used for K value determination, as they enable broader ranges of K values to be covered with good accuracy.

Method optimization for the analysis of amphetamines in urine by solid-phase microextraction

Solid-phase microextraction is under investigation in many laboratories for its usefulness in the analysis of an ever widening variety of compounds. As new classes of compounds are investigated and new challenges arise, the methods are adapted to accommodate them. Polar semivolatiles are increasingly under study as analytical targets, and difficulties with small partition coefficients and long equilibration times have been identified. Amphetamine and methamphetamine were selected as semivolatiles exhibiting these limitations, and methods to optimize their analyses were investigated. Amphetamines are frequently monitored in very complex matrixes. Headspace methods minimize interactions between the sample and the fiber and have proven useful for these analyses. Several areas of experimental design were considered in the process of method optimization. These included matrix modification by heating, stirring, methanol content, addition of salt, and pH buffering. It was found that these amphetamines could be reliably analyzed using modified sample conditions, with excellent sensitivity, limits of detection, and method linearity. Clinical urine samples were successfully analyzed and gave clean chromatograms with no interfering peaks. Finally, the method developed was found to be useful for the analysis of narcotic analgesics. In the future, it is hoped that the method can be used to develop a general screen for a wide range of drugs of abuse.

Solid-phase microextraction for the analysis of human breath

Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has been applied to the quantitative determination of ethanol, acetone, and isoprene in human breath. The method involves extraction and preconcentration with a fused silica fiber coated with a polymeric stationary phase, desorption at 200 degrees C, and assay by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Three different fiber coatings have been evaluated with regard to sensitivity, linear range, precision, and detection limits. Typical RSD values in the range 2%-6% could be obtained, depending on the fiber coating and the compound investigated. The calibration curves for the compounds are reproducible and linear over the concentration ranges found in human breath samples. The method is capable of detecting concentrations of acetone and isoprene reported for healthy subjects. The influence of temperature and humidity on the extraction process has been studied in detail. A linear relationship between log K versus 1/T allows the calibration of the method for any given temperature. The device is portable, economical, and easy to use in patient sampling.

Analysis of pesticides in environmental water samples by solid-phase micro-extraction-high-performance liquid chromatography

Solid-phase micro-extraction (SPME) followed by high-performance liquid chromatography (LC) has been applied to analyze pesticides in water samples. A device interfaces SPME to the LC injection process by solvent extracting analytes from the fiber and then introducing the solvent into the LC injector. LC analysis with UV detection was performed first with a conventional column (4.6 mm I.D.). To enhance efficiency of SPME, three extraction conditions, stirring, temperature and salt concentration, were optimized. Subsequently, semi-microcolumn LC (1.5 mm I.D.) was evaluated for this method, giving lower detection limits and less solvent consumption. Detection limits were within Japanese regulatory limits for drinking water. The SPME-LC method was applied to real-world environmental water samples.

Capillary-zone electrophoresis in agarose gels using absorption imaging detection

A simple home-built electrophoretic unit and a commercially available charge-coupled device (CCD) camera with image acquisition and analysis software were used to study the separation process in zone electrophoresis experiments in 4 cm long, round capillaries (inside diameter 0.2 mm). Several capillaries could be investigated simultaneously. The absorption imaging system was used not only to follow the course of the separation but also to study the interaction between biologically active substances (proteins, detergents, enzymes and-substrate). Since the system allows visual on-line observation of the separation one can rapidly decide when the analysis is finished, which often shortens the analysis time. The electrophoresis method presented is suitable also for preparative runs, since direct visualizations of a solute zone allows it to be excised and then used for further studies.

Fluorescence imaging detection for capillary isoelectric focusing

A simple laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) imaging detector and an ultrasensitive LIF imaging detector are described for capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF). An argon ion laser beam of 496.5 nm is used as excitation source. In the simple LIF imaging detector, the excitation beam is directed into a capillary column by an optic fiber array. In the ultrasensitive LIF imaging detector, the laser beam is first expanded, then is focused into the 4.5 cm long capillary column by a cylindrical lens. Fluorescence emission is detected by a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. The feasibility and performance of the LIF imaging detector system for CIEF are first verified with a naturally fluorescent protein, b-phycoerythrin. Then, the ultrasensitive LIF imaging system is used as a detector for CIEF of proteins labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). Three FITC-labeled proteins (i) alpha-D-galatosylated FITC-albumin, (ii) insulin-FITC, and (iii) casein-FITC, are used as model samples. Fluorescence images of the model samples are measured during the CIEF process. The focusing of the protein samples is complete in about 1.5 min. The ultrasensitive detector's detection limits for the FITC-labeled proteins are at the level of 10(-10) M, and the mass detection limits are about 4.5 x 10(-17) mole, even though only 10% of the fluorescence emission is collected. Therefore, the method is capable of separating and detecting 10(-11) M or amole (10(-18) mole) level protein samples with a band-pass filter more specific to the fluorescence light.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Protein analysis by isoelectric focusing in a capillary array with an absorption imaging detector

Isoelectric focusing (IEF) was successfully performed in capillary arrays with up to four capillaries. Separated proteins in the capillary array were detected by an UV absorption imaging detector. The whole analysis time for all samples in the capillary array was only 3 min due to the real-time imaging detector. The instrument was applied to analyse several protein samples including different human hemoglobin variants, myoglobin, transferrin, carbonic anhydrase and a monoclonal antibody to fluorescein. Because of good reproducibility of the focused pattern, unknown samples can be run simultaneously with a standard in the multichannel instrument and the components of unknown samples can be identified by comparing their zone positions to those of the standard. Minor components can be determined by the instrument in the presence of major components with 100 times higher concentrations in human hemoglobin samples. This instrument could be a powerful analytical tool for clinical analysis and for quality control in pharmaceutical companies.

Application of capillary isoelectric focusing with absorption imaging detection to the quantitative determination of human hemoglobin variants

The capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF)-absorption imaging detector is a multicapillary separation instrument. Several protein samples can be separated and detected in a single run. The analysis time for one run is only 3 min. Because an imaging detector is used, the mobilization process of conventional CIEF is not necessary, eliminating such drawbacks as long analysis time and poor reproducibility in mobilization speed. Human hemoglobin variants were quantitatively determined using the instrument. The peak areas of the analytes were proportional to their concentrations in the concentration range of 0-200 micrograms/mL. Hemoglobin variant A2, which only comprises 2% of the whole hemoglobin, can be quantitatively determined with a standard deviation of less than 10%. For the high concentration variants, such as variant S, the deviation is less than 1%.

Application of capillary isoelectric focusing with absorption imaging detection to the analysis of proteins

A capillary isoelectric focusing instrument with an on-line optical absorption imaging detector was used to analyse protein samples. The separation column was a 4 cm x 100 microns I.D. capillary. The light source of the imaging detector was a argon ion laser. The light beam from the laser was focused into the capillary by a cylindrical lens. An 1024-pixel charge-coupled device (CCD) measured intensity of light beam passing through the capillary. The optical alignment of the detector was optimized to eliminate interference produced by the refractive index gradient created by sample zones inside the capillary. The signal-to-noise ratio of the detector was enhanced by averaging 30 scans of the CCD every 3 s. The on-line imaging detector allows simultaneous separation and detection so that the analysis time for a sample is only 2-4 min. Several protein samples were analyzed by the instrument, including human hemoglobin variants, cytochrome c, myoglobin and transferrin.

Peptide mapping of bovine and chicken cytochrome c by capillary isoelectric focusing with universal concentration gradient imaging

Capillary isoelectric focusing with universal concentration gradient imaging detection was used to separate and detect tryptic peptides from bovine and chicken cytochrome c. For a desalted sample of peptide angiotensin 2, the isoelectric point (pI) measured by the instrument agreed well with the pI calculated from amino acid pK values. For the cytochrome digests, correlations between measured and calculated pI values were imprecise because peak positions shifted slightly from test to test. This problem is thought to be caused by the inefficient desalting process used on the samples, leaving salt residues which caused distortion in the pH gradient during the focusing process. However, this system differentiated between the two cytochrome c's. The concentration gradient imaging detected peptides which contain no tyrosine and no tryptophan amino acids, which a UV absorption detector operating at 280 nm could not. The separation and detection steps took only 5-7 min because no mobilization was necessary after the focusing process.

Fast analysis of proteins by isoelectric focusing performed in capillary array detected with concentration gradient imaging system

Isoelectric focusing of several protein samples is performed simultaneously in an array of 2-4 short capillaries (4-10 cm long). The separated proteins are detected by either an on-line concentration gradient imaging detection system, or a single point concentration gradient detector which requires a mobilization step following the focusing process. The application of the capillary array increases the throughput of the capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF) technique, and makes the technique comparable in sample throughput to the gel slab isoelectric focusing technique, but with much faster speed of separation and quantitation. The analysis is completed in 2-3 min with the imaging detection system, which is about 100 times faster than the conventional gel slab isoelectric focusing and 10 times faster compared to conventional CIEF. The resolution of the separation is 0.02 pH units or better. All separated proteins in the capillary array are detected by the universal concentration gradient detector, which eliminates the need for sample derivatization. The concentration limit of detection for the inexpensive instrument described in this work is about 30 micrograms/mL and can be reduced by using higher quality components in the system, such as a more stable laser, higher optical quality capillaries and a faster computer A/D board. The sample consumption is 400 nL for the 4 cm long, 100 microns ID square capillary. The isoelectric point (pI) values of the samples can be directly determined without internal pI markers from their positions inside the capillary after focusing when the imaging detection system is used.

Detection of substituted benzenes in water at the pg/ml level using solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry

Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) is combined with gas chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry (GC-IT-MS) for the analysis of benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene and xylene isomers (BTEX) in water. SPME is a recent technique for extracting organics from an aqueous matrix into a stationary phase immobilized on a fused-silica fiber. The analytes are thermally desorbed directly in the injector of a gas chromatograph. The wide linear dynamic range (five orders of magnitude) and pg sensitivity of the ion trap mass spectrometer in its full scan mode is an ideal detector for identifying and quantifying the analytes extracted with an SPME device. The combined method SPME-GC-IT-MS, using fibers coated with a 100-microns polydimethylsiloxane coating, showed a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 50 pg/ml benzene in water. This corresponds to 5 pg of benzene absorbed onto the fiber. The limit of detection (LOD) was 15 pg/ml benzene. For o-xylene spiked at 50 pg/ml in water 50 pg were absorbed by the fiber indicating an LOQ and LOD 10 times better than for benzene. The detection limits obtained exceed the requirements of both the United States Environmental Protection Agency method 524.2 and the Ontario Municipal/Industrial Strategy for Abatement program, which range from 30 to 80 pg/ml and 500 to 1100 pg/ml, respectively. The linearity of the method extended over five orders of magnitude. Relative standard deviation ranged from 2.7 to 5.2% for 15 ng/ml BTEX in water and from 5.5 to 7.5% for 50 pg/ml BTEX in water. SPME-GC-IT-MS was used to evaluate the contamination level in laboratory, potable and wastewater sources.

Application of capillary isoelectric focusing with universal concentration gradient detector to the analysis of protein samples

The design of a new capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) instrument, composed of a rugged cartridge holding a short piece of capillary and a universal, inexpensive concentration gradient detector, was optimized and applied to the analysis of various protein samples. High-efficiency cIEF separations with sub-femtomole detection limits for absolute amounts were obtained using 10 microns I.D. capillaries with large O.D.-to-I.D. ratios. An electric field strength of 1 kV/cm applied in the focusing step resulted in a 10(-8) M on-column concentration detection limit, which corresponded to 10(2) amol absolute amount of proteins. The detection volume was estimated to be 2 pl, which is among the smallest values reported to date for any optical or spectroscopic detector. When a 6-cm long capillary was used, proteins with isoelectric points ranging from 4.7 to 8.8 could be analyzed in about 5 min, the shortest analysis time ever reported for cIEF. Compared with commercial cIEF instruments with UV-visible absorbance detectors, the instrument is easier to use and has lower detection limits and better resolution. Several protein mixtures and real samples were separated with this instrument.