Matrix effects during analysis of plasma samples by electrospray and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry: practical approaches to their elimination

Metabolomic Profiling in Children with Celiac Disease: Beyond the Gluten-Free Diet

Celiac disease (CD) is included in the group of complex or multifactorial diseases, i.e., those caused by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Despite a growing understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease, diagnosis is still often delayed and there are no effective biomarkers for early diagnosis. The only current treatment, a gluten-free diet (GFD), can alleviate symptoms and restore intestinal villi, but its cellular effects remain poorly understood. To gain a comprehensive understanding of CD's progression, it is crucial to advance knowledge across various scientific disciplines and explore what transpires after disease onset. Metabolomics studies hold particular significance in unravelling the complexities of multifactorial and multisystemic disorders, where environmental factors play a significant role in disease manifestation and progression. By analyzing metabolites, we can gain insights into the reasons behind CD's occurrence, as well as better comprehend the impact of treatment initiation on patients. In this review, we present a collection of articles that showcase the latest breakthroughs in the field of metabolomics in pediatric CD, with the aim of trying to identify CD biomarkers for both early diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These advancements shed light on the potential of metabolomic analysis in enhancing our understanding of the disease and improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. More studies need to be designed to cover metabolic profiles in subjects at risk of developing the disease, as well as those analyzing biomarkers for follow-up treatment with a GFD.

Non-regulated LC-MS/MS bioanalysis in support of early drug development - a Novartis perspective

Scientifically qualified LC-MS/MS methods are essential for the determination of small molecule drug candidates and/or their metabolite(s) in support of various non-regulated safety assessment and in vivo absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion studies in preclinical development. This article outlines an effective method development workflow to fit for this purpose. The workflow features a 'universal' protein precipitation solvent for efficient sample extraction, a mobile phase additive for managing chromatographic resolution and addressing carryover and an internal standard cocktail to select the best analogue internal standard to track the analyte of interest in LC-MS/MS. In addition, good practices are recommended to prevent bioanalytical pitfalls due to instability, non-specific binding and dosing vehicle-induced matrix effect. Proper handling of non-liquid matrix is also discussed.

Methods on LDL particle isolation, characterization, and component fractionation for the development of novel specific oxidized LDL status markers for atherosclerotic disease risk assessment

The present study uses simple, innovative methods to isolate, characterize and fractionate LDL in its main components for the study of specific oxidations on them that characterize oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) status, as it causatively relates to atherosclerosis-associated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment. These methods are: (a) A simple, relatively time-short, low cost protocol for LDL isolation, to avoid shortcomings of the currently employed ultracentrifugation and affinity chromatography methodologies. (b) LDL purity verification by apoB100 SDS-PAGE analysis and by LDL particle size determination; the latter and its serum concentration are determined in the present study by a simple method more clinically feasible as marker of CVD risk assessment than nuclear magnetic resonance. (c) A protocol for LDL fractionation, for the first time, into its main protein/lipid components (apoB100, phospholipids, triglycerides, free cholesterol, and cholesteryl esters), as well as into LDL carotenoid/tocopherol content. (d) Protocols for the measurement, for the first time, of indicative specific LDL component oxidative modifications (cholesteryl ester-OOH, triglyceride-OOH, free cholesterol-OOH, phospholipid-OOH, apoB100-MDA, and apoB100-DiTyr) out of the many (known/unknown/under development) that collectively define oxLDL status, which contrasts with the current non-specific oxLDL status evaluation methods. The indicative oxLDL status markers, selected in the present study on the basis of expressing early oxidative stress-induced oxidative effects on LDL, are studied for the first time on patients with end stage kidney disease on maintenance hemodialysis, selected as an indicative model for atherosclerosis associated diseases. Isolating LDL and fractionating its protein and main lipid components, as well as its antioxidant arsenal comprised of carotenoids and tocopherols, paves the way for future studies to investigate all possible oxidative modifications responsible for turning LDL to oxLDL in association to their possible escaping from LDL's internal antioxidant defense. This can lead to studies to identify those oxidative modifications of oxLDL (after their artificial generation on LDL), which are recognized by macrophages and convert them to foam cells, known to be responsible for the formation of atherosclerotic plaques that lead to the various CVDs.

Review of the Use of Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry in Clinical Laboratories: Part II-Operations

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is increasingly utilized in clinical laboratories because it has advantages in terms of specificity and sensitivity over other analytical technologies. These advantages come with additional responsibilities and challenges given that many assays and platforms are not provided to laboratories as a single kit or device. The skills, staff, and assays used in LC-MS/MS are internally developed by the laboratory, with relatively few exceptions. Hence, a laboratory that deploys LC-MS/MS assays must be conscientious of the practices and procedures adopted to overcome the challenges associated with the technology. This review discusses the post-development landscape of LC-MS/MS assays, including validation, quality assurance, operations, and troubleshooting. The content knowledge of LC-MS/MS users is quite broad and deep and spans multiple scientific fields, including biology, clinical chemistry, chromatography, engineering, and MS. However, there are no formal academic programs or specific literature to train laboratory staff on the fundamentals of LC-MS/MS beyond the reports on method development. Therefore, depending on their experience level, some readers may be familiar with aspects of the laboratory practices described herein, while others may be not. This review endeavors to assemble aspects of LC-MS/MS operations in the clinical laboratory to provide a framework for the thoughtful development and execution of LC-MS/MS applications.

Evaluation of Normalization Approaches for Quantitative Analysis of Bile Acids in Human Feces

Quantitative analysis of bile acids in human feces can potentially help to better understand the influence of the gut microbiome and diet on human health. Feces is a highly heterogeneous sample matrix, mainly consisting of water and indigestible solid material (as plant fibers) that show high inter-individual variability. To compare bile acid concentrations among different individuals, a reliable normalization approach is needed. Here, we compared the impact of three normalization approaches, namely sample wet weight, dry weight, and protein concentration, on the absolute concentrations of fecal bile acids. Bile acid concentrations were determined in 70 feces samples from healthy humans. Our data show that bile acid concentrations normalized by the three different approaches are substantially different for each individual sample. Fecal bile acid concentrations normalized by wet weight show the narrowest distribution. Therefore, our analysis will provide the basis for the selection of a suitable normalization approach for the quantitative analysis of bile acids in feces.

Review of the Use of Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry in Clinical Laboratories: Part I-Development

The process of method development for a diagnostic assay based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) involves several disparate technologies and specialties. Additionally, method development details are typically not disclosed in journal publications. Method developers may need to search widely for pertinent information on their assay(s). This review summarizes the current practices and procedures in method development. Additionally, it probes aspects of method development that are generally not discussed, such as how exactly to calibrate an assay or where to place quality controls, using examples from the literature. This review intends to provide a comprehensive resource and induce critical thinking around the experiments for and execution of developing a clinically meaningful LC-MS/MS assay.

Benefits and Pitfalls of HPLC Coupled to Diode-Array, Charged Aerosol, and Coulometric Detections: Effect of Detection on Screening of Bioactive Compounds in Apples

The new screening method for rapid evaluation of major phenolic compounds in apples has been developed. Suitability of coupling HPLC/UHPLC separation with the diode-array detection and universal charged aerosol detection with respect to the presence of interfering substances was tested. Characteristics of both detection techniques were compared and method linearity, limits of detection and quantitation, and selectivity of them determined. Student t-test based on slopes of calibration plots was applied for the detailed comparison. The diode-array detection provided the best results regarding sensitivity and selectivity of the developed method in terms of evaluation of phenolics profiles. The response of the charged aerosol detector was negatively affected by co-eluting substances during rapid-screening analyses. Coulometric detection was used for advanced characterization of extracts in terms of antioxidant content and strength to obtain more complex information concerning sample composition. This detection also allowed evaluation of unidentified compounds with antioxidant activity. HPLC/UHPLC separation using a combination of diode-array and coulometric detectors thus represented the best approach enabling quick, yet complex characterization of bioactive compounds in apples.

A systematic review on chromatography-based method validation for quantification of vancomycin in biological matrices

A fully validated bioanalytical methods are prerequisite for pharmacokinetic and bioequivalence studies as well as for therapeutic drug monitoring. Due to high pharmacokinetic variability and narrow therapeutic index, vancomycin requires reliable quantification methods for therapeutic drug monitoring. To identify published chromatographic based bioanalytical methods for vancomycin in current systematic review, PubMed and ScienceDirect databases were searched. The selected records were evaluated against the method validation criteria derived from international guidelines for critical assessment. The major deficiencies were identified in method validation parameters specifically for accuracy, precision and number of calibration and validation standards, which compromised the reliability of the validated bioanalytical methods. The systematic review enacts to adapt the recommended international guidelines for suggested validation parameters to make bioanalysis reliable.

Three-dimensional aspects of formulation excipients in drug discovery: a critical assessment on orphan excipients, matrix effects and drug interactions

Formulation/pharmaceutical excipients play a major role in formulating drug candidates, with the objectives of ease of administration, targeted delivery and complete availability. Many excipients used in pharmaceutical formulations are orphanized in preclinical drug discovery. These orphan excipients could enhance formulatability of highly lipophilic compounds. Additionally, they are safe in preclinical species when used below the LD50 values. However, when the excipients are used in formulating compounds with diverse physico-chemical properties, they pose challenges by modulating study results through their bioanalytical matrix effects. Excipients invariably present in study samples and not in the calibration curve standards cause over-/under- estimation of exposures. Thus, the mechanism by which excipients cause matrix effects and strategies to nullify these effects needs to be revisited. Furthermore, formulation excipients cause drug interactions by moderating the pathways of drug metabolizing enzymes and drug transport proteins. Although it is not possible to get rid of excipient driven interactions, it is always advised to be aware of these interactions and apply the knowledge to draw meaningful conclusions from study results. In this review, we will comprehensively discuss a) orphan excipients that have wider applications in preclinical formulations, b) bioanalytical matrix effects and possible approaches to mitigating these effects, and c) excipient driven drug interactions and strategies to alleviate the impacts of drug interactions.

Improved methods for biomarker analysis of the big five mycotoxins enables reliable exposure characterization in a population of childbearing age women in Rwanda

Of the five agriculturally important mycotoxins, AFB₁, FB₁, DON, ZEA and OTA, a well-characterized biomarker of exposure in blood is only available for aflatoxin. Working with a population of 139 women of childbearing age in Rwanda, we undertook a comprehensive assessment of their dietary mycotoxin exposure. Using high-resolution LC-MS/MS with stable isotope dilution analysis, the albumin-aflatoxin adduct was quantitated in plasma. Similarly, AFM₁, AFB₁, AFG₁, FB₁ and B₂, OTA, zearalenone, α-zearalenol, deoxynivalenol, deoxynivalenol-15-glucuronide and deoxynivalenol-3-glucuronide were quantitated in urine. AFB₁-Lys was detected in plasma from 81% of the women, indicative of exposures 1-2 orders of magnitude above current guidance. Zearalenone and/or α-zearalenol were detected in the urine of 61% of the women, the majority of whom had estimated exposures 2-5 times the PMTDI, with one third more than an order of magnitude above. Urinary deoxynivalenol or the two glucuronide conjugates were found in 77% of the participants. Of these, 60% were below the PMTDI, 28% were twice and 12% were >10x the PMTDI. Fumonisin B₁ (30%) and ochratoxin A (71%) were also detected in urine. Exposures observed in these Rwandan women raise serious food safety concerns and highlight the need for authorities to help manage multiple mycotoxins in their diet.

Compensate for or Minimize Matrix Effects? Strategies for Overcoming Matrix Effects in Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Technique: A Tutorial Review

In recent decades, mass spectrometry techniques, particularly when combined with separation methods such as high-performance liquid chromatography, have become increasingly important in pharmaceutical, bio-analytical, environmental, and food science applications because they afford high selectivity and sensitivity. However, mass spectrometry has limitations due to the matrix effects (ME), which can be particularly marked in complex mixes, when the analyte co-elutes together with other molecules, altering analysis results quantitatively. This may be detrimental during method validation, negatively affecting reproducibility, linearity, selectivity, accuracy, and sensitivity. Starting from literature and own experience, this review intends to provide a simple guideline for selecting the best operative conditions to overcome matrix effects in LC-MS techniques, to obtain the best result in the shortest time. The proposed methodology can be of benefit in different sectors, such as pharmaceutical, bio-analytical, environmental, and food sciences. Depending on the required sensitivity, analysts may minimize or compensate for ME. When sensitivity is crucial, analysis must try to minimize ME by adjusting MS parameters, chromatographic conditions, or optimizing clean-up. On the contrary, to compensate for ME analysts should have recourse to calibration approaches depending on the availability of blank matrix. When blank matrices are available, calibration can occur through isotope labeled internal standards and matrix matched calibration standards; conversely, when blank matrices are not available, calibration can be performed through isotope labeled internal standards, background subtraction, or surrogate matrices. In any case, an adjusting of MS parameters, chromatographic conditions, or a clean-up are necessary.

Applications of Machine Learning to In Silico Quantification of Chemicals without Analytical Standards

Non-targeted analysis provides a comprehensive approach to analyze environmental and biological samples for nearly all chemicals present. One of the main shortcomings of current analytical methods and workflows is that they are unable to provide any quantitative information constituting an important obstacle in understanding environmental fate and human exposure. Herein, we present an in silico quantification method using mahine-learning for chemicals analyzed using electrospray ionization (ESI). We considered three data sets from different instrumental setups: (i) capillary electrophoresis electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (CE-MS) in positive ionization mode (ESI+), (ii) liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF/MS) in ESI+ and (iii) LC-QTOF/MS in negative ionization mode (ESI-). We developed and applied two different machine-learning algorithms: a random forest (RF) and an artificial neural network (ANN) to predict the relative response factors (RRFs) of different chemicals based on their physicochemical properties. Chemical concentrations can then be calculated by dividing the measured abundance of a chemical, as peak area or peak height, by its corresponding RRF. We evaluated our models and tested their predictive power using 5-fold cross-validation (CV) and y randomization. Both the RF and the ANN models showed great promise in predicting RRFs. However, the accuracy of the predictions was dependent on the data set composition and the experimental setup. For the CE-MS ESI+ data set, the best model predicted measured RRFs with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.19 log units and a cross-validation coefficient of determination (Q2) of 0.84 for the testing set. For the LC-QTOF/MS ESI+ data set, the best model predicted measured RRFs with an MAE of 0.32 and a Q2 of 0.40. For the LC-QTOF/MS ESI- data set, the best model predicted measured RRFs with a MAE of 0.50 and a Q2 of 0.20. Our findings suggest that machine-learning algorithms can be used for predicting concentrations of nontargeted chemicals with reasonable uncertainties, especially in ESI+, while the application on ESI- remains a more challenging problem.

Atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry at low flow rates: Importance of ion source housing

RATIONALE

Hyphenation of atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) mass spectrometry with capillary and micro high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is attractive for many applications, but reliable ion sources dedicated to these conditions are still missing. There are a number of aspects to consider when designing such an ion source, including the susceptibility of the ionization processes to ambient conditions. Here we discuss the importance of ion source housing for APCI at low flow rates.

METHODS

Selected compounds dissolved in various solvents were used to study ionization reactions at 10 μL/min flow rate. APCI spectra were generated using the Ion Max-S source (Thermo Fisher Scientific) operated with or without the ion source housing.

RESULTS

The APCI spectra of most compounds measured in the open and enclosed ion sources were markedly different. The differences were explained by water and oxygen molecules that entered the plasma region of the open ion source. Water tended to suppress charge transfer processes while oxygen diminished electron capture reactions and prevented the formation of acetonitrile-related radical cations useful for localizing double bonds in lipids. The effects associated with the ion source housing were significantly less important for compounds that are easy to protonate or deprotonate.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of ion source housing prevented alternative ionization channels leading to unwanted or unexpected ions. Compared with the conventional flow rate mode (1 mL/min), the effects of ambient air components were significantly higher at 10 μL/min, emphasizing the need for ion source housing in APCI sources dedicated to low flow rates.

Developing Robust Standardised Analytical Procedures for Cannabinoid Quantification: Laying the Foundations for an Emerging Cannabis-Based Pharmaceutical Industry

The plant genus Cannabis is a prolific producer of unique pharmaceutically relevant metabolites, commonly referred to as cannabinoids. Robust and standardised methods for the quantification of cannabinoids within botanical and drug forms is a critical step forward for an emerging Cannabis-based pharmaceutical industry, which is poised for rapid expansion. Despite a growing body of analytical methods for the quantification of cannabinoids, few have been validated using internationally accredited guidelines. Moreover, standardised methods have yet to be developed for application at various stages of manufacture as well as for different levels of processing and refinement. Validation parameters for establishing robust standardised methods for cannabinoid quantification within Cannabis-based drug forms are critically discussed. Determining an appropriate level of specificity (discrimination) among heterogeneous botanical matrices as well as evaluating accuracy (recovery) and inter-laboratory precision (reproducibility) within strict and volatile regulatory environments are potential obstacles to the establishment of robust analytical procedures. We argue that while some of these challenges remain unique to Cannabis, others are common to botanical-based drug development and manufacture. In order to address potential barriers to analytical method standardisation, a collaborative research initiative inclusive of academic and commercial stakeholders is proposed.

Enhancement and Suppression of Ionization in Drug Analysis Using HPLC-MS/MS in Support of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: A Review of Current Knowledge of Its Minimization and Assessment

High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry is commonly used for quantitation of analytes in biological matrices, because of the selectivity, sensitivity, and high throughput offered by this technique. However, the presence of both suppression and enhancement of ionization (SEI) by matrix components is an increasingly recognized impediment to accurate results. The existence of SEI indicates that ionization efficiency is a result of the chemical environment seen by both the analyte and internal standard during ion formation. SEI is influenced by the type and the make of ion source used, mobile-phase composition, extent of sample preparation, and the ability to chromatographically separate other compounds that may influence ionization of the analyte and/or internal standard. A comprehensive review of the phenomenon of SEI in high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry was conducted, and a summary of salient papers relating to therapeutic agents in biological matrices is presented. Suggestions for approaches to minimize, normalize, or assess SEI and its deleterious effect on accuracy and sensitivity, and hence the validity of quantitative results, are provided. Consideration is also given to a strategy to test for SEI, including the number of samples from different sources that are required to adequately test for SEI.

Mass spectrometric analysis of carisoprodol and meprobamate in rat brain microdialysates

We report the evaluation of several mass spectrometry-based methods for the determination of carisoprodol and meprobamate in samples obtained from the rat brain by in vivo intracranial microdialyis. Among the techniques that aspire to perform analyses without chromatographic separation and thereby increase throughput, chip-based nanoelectrospray ionization and the use of an atmospheric pressure solids analysis probe fell short of requirements because of insufficient detection sensitivity and hard ionization, respectively. Although direct analysis in real time provided the required soft ionization, shortcomings of a tandem mass spectrometry-based assay also included inadequate detection sensitivity and, in addition, poor quantitative reproducibility. Therefore, liquid chromatography coupled with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization tandem mass spectrometry was developed to determine carisoprodol and meprobamate from artificial cerebrospinal fluid as the medium. No desalting and/or extraction of the samples was necessary. The assay, combined with in vivo sampling via intracranial microdialyis, afforded time-resolved concentration profiles for the drug and its major metabolite from the nucleus accumbens region of the brain in rats after systemic administration of carisoprodol. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Analysis of steroid hormones and their conjugated forms in water and urine by on-line solid-phase extraction coupled to liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

Background

In recent years, endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) have been found in rivers that receive significant inputs of wastewater. Among EDCs, natural and synthetic steroid hormones are recognized for their potential to mimic or interfere with normal hormonal functions (development, growth and reproduction), even at ultratrace levels (ng L⁻¹). Although conjugated hormones are less active than free hormones, they can be cleaved and release the unconjugated estrogens through microbial processes before or during the treatment of wastewater. Due to the need to identify and quantify these compounds, a new fully automated method was developed for the simultaneous determination of the two forms of several steroid hormones (free and conjugated) in different water matrixes and in urine.

Results

The method is based on online solid phase extraction coupled with liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (SPE–LC–MS/MS). Several parameters were assessed in order to optimize the efficiency of the method, such as the type and flow rate of the mobile phase, the various SPE columns, chromatography as well as different sources and ionization modes for MS. The method demonstrated good linearity (R² > 0.993) and precision with a coefficient of variance of less than 10 %. The quantification limits vary from a minimum of 3–15 ng L⁻¹ for an injection volume of 1 and 5 mL, respectively, with the recovery values of the compounds varying from 72 to 117 %.

Conclusion

The suggested method has been validated and successfully applied for the simultaneous analysis of several steroid hormones in different water matrixes and in urine.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13065-016-0174-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Effect of sample dilution on matrix effects in pesticide analysis of several matrices by liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry

This study used two LC columns of different adsorbents and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-high-resolution mass spectrometry to study the relationship between matrix effects (ME), the LC separations, and elution patterns of pesticides and those of matrix components. Using calibration standards of 381 pesticides at three dilution levels of 1×, 1/10×, and 1/100×, 108 samples were prepared in solvent and five different sample matrices for the study. Results obtained from principal component analysis and slope ratios of calibration curves provided measurements of the ME and showed the 1/100× sample dilution could minimize suppression ME for most pesticides analyzed. Should a pesticide coeluting with matrix components have a peak intensity of 25 times or higher, the suppression for that pesticide would persist even at 1/100× dilution. The number of pesticides had enhancement ME increased with increasing dilution from 1× to 1/100×, with those early eluting, hydrophilic pesticides affected the most.

Impact of electrospray ion source platforms on matrix effect due to plasma phospholipids in the determination of rivastigmine by LC–MS/MS

Background: This study evaluates the performance of three electrospray ionization source designs to monitor the interference of plasma phospholipids for reliable estimation of rivastigmine by LC–MS/MS for method ruggedness. The variation in the area response due to matrix effects was assessed by post-column infusion, post-extraction spiking and standard-line slope methods. Results: The observed interference due to coeluting phospholipids (m/z: 524.0/184.0) at the retention time of rivastigmine was 39.5, 12.9 and 0.4% using angular spray, orthogonal spray and dual orthogonal ion source spray design, respectively. Similarly, %CV for standard line slopes was 6.9, 4.6 and 2.0, respectively. Conclusion: Z-spray source design provided better and efficient transfer of gas phase ions into the mass analyzer compared with angular and orthogonal spray. The study showed that Z-spray ion source provided minimum interference from phospholipids compared with other ion source designs.

Determination of six chemotherapeutic agents in municipal wastewater using online solid-phase extraction coupled to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Due to the increased consumption of chemotherapeutic agents, their high toxicity, carcinogenicity, their occurrence in the aquatic environment must be properly evaluated. An analytical method based on online solid-phase extraction coupled to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated. A 1 mL injection volume was used to quantify six of the most widely used cytotoxic drugs (cyclophosphamide, gemcitabine, ifosfamide, methotrexate, irinotecan and epirubicin) in municipal wastewater. The method was validated using standard additions. The validation results in wastewater influent had coefficients of determination (R(2)) between 0.983 and 0.998 and intra-day precision ranging from 7 to 13% (expressed as relative standard deviation %RSD), and from 9 to 23% for inter-day precision. Limits of detection ranged from 4 to 20 ng L(-1) while recovery values were greater than 70% except for gemcitabine, which is the most hydrophilic compound in the selected group and had a recovery of 47%. Matrix effects were interpreted by signal suppression and ranged from 55 to 118% with cyclophosphamide having the highest value. Two of the target anticancer drugs (cyclophosphamide and methotrexate) were detected and quantified in wastewater (effluent and influent) and ranged from 13 to 60 ng L(-1). The proposed method thus allows proper monitoring of potential environmental releases of chemotherapy agents.

Validation of a LC-MS/MS method for quantifying urinary nicotine, six nicotine metabolites and the minor tobacco alkaloids--anatabine and anabasine--in smokers' urine

Tobacco use is a major contributor to premature morbidity and mortality. The measurement of nicotine and its metabolites in urine is a valuable tool for evaluating nicotine exposure and for nicotine metabolic profiling--i.e., metabolite ratios. In addition, the minor tobacco alkaloids--anabasine and anatabine--can be useful for monitoring compliance in smoking cessation programs that use nicotine replacement therapy. Because of an increasing demand for the measurement of urinary nicotine metabolites, we developed a rapid, low-cost method that uses isotope dilution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for simultaneously quantifying nicotine, six nicotine metabolites, and two minor tobacco alkaloids in smokers' urine. This method enzymatically hydrolyzes conjugated nicotine (primarily glucuronides) and its metabolites. We then use acetone pretreatment to precipitate matrix components (endogenous proteins, salts, phospholipids, and exogenous enzyme) that may interfere with LC-MS/MS analysis. Subsequently, analytes (nicotine, cotinine, hydroxycotinine, norcotinine, nornicotine, cotinine N-oxide, nicotine 1'-N-oxide, anatabine, and anabasine) are chromatographically resolved within a cycle time of 13.5 minutes. The optimized assay produces linear responses across the analyte concentrations typically found in urine collected from daily smokers. Because matrix ion suppression may influence accuracy, we include a discussion of conventions employed in this procedure to minimize matrix interferences. Simplicity, low cost, low maintenance combined with high mean metabolite recovery (76-99%), specificity, accuracy (0-10% bias) and reproducibility (2-9% C.V.) make this method ideal for large high through-put studies.

Pharmacokinetic Studies of Chinese Medicinal Herbs Using an Automated Blood Sampling System and Liquid Chromatography-mass Spectrometry

The safety of herbal products is one of the major concerns for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine, and pharmacokinetic data of medicinal herbs guide us to design the rational use of the herbal formula. This article reviews the advantages of the automated blood sampling (ABS) systems for pharmacokinetic studies. In addition, three commonly used sample preparative methods, protein precipitation, liquid-liquid extraction and solid-phase extraction, are introduced. Furthermore, the definition, causes and evaluation of matrix effects in liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS) analysis are demonstrated. Finally, we present our previous works as practical examples of the application of ABS systems and LC/MS for the pharmacokinetic studies of Chinese medicinal herbs.

Bioanalytical chromatographic method validation according to current regulations, with a special focus on the non-well defined parameters limit of quantification, robustness and matrix effect

Method validation is a mandatory step in bioanalysis, to evaluate the ability of developed methods in providing reliable results for their routine application. Even if some organisations have developed guidelines to define the different parameters to be included in method validation (FDA, EMA); there are still some ambiguous concepts in validation criteria and methodology that need to be clarified. The methodology to calculate fundamental parameters such as the limit of quantification has been defined in several ways without reaching a harmonised definition, which can lead to very different values depending on the applied criterion. Other parameters such as robustness or ruggedness are usually omitted and when defined there is not an established approach to evaluate them. Especially significant is the case of the matrix effect evaluation which is one of the most critical points to be studied in LC-MS methods but has been traditionally overlooked. Due to the increasing importance of bioanalysis this scenario is no longer acceptable and harmonised criteria involving all the concerned parties should be arisen. The objective of this review is thus to discuss and highlight several essential aspects of method validation, focused in bioanalysis. The overall validation process including common validation parameters (selectivity, linearity range, precision, accuracy, stability…) will be reviewed. Furthermore, the most controversial parameters (limit of quantification, robustness and matrix effect) will be carefully studied and the definitions and methodology proposed by the different regulatory bodies will be compared. This review aims to clarify the methodology to be followed in bioanalytical method validation, facilitating this time consuming step.

Bioanalysis for plasma protein binding studies in drug discovery and drug development: views and recommendations of the European Bioanalysis Forum

Plasma protein binding (PPB) is an important parameter for a drug’s efficacy and safety that needs to be investigated during each drug-development program. Even though regulatory guidance exists to study the extent of PPB before initiating clinical studies, there are no detailed instructions on how to perform and validate such studies. To explore how PPB studies involving bioanalysis are currently executed in the industry, the European Bioanalysis Forum (EBF) has conducted three surveys among their member companies: PPB studies in drug discovery (Part I); in vitro PPB studies in drug development (Part II); and in vivo PPB studies in drug development. This paper reflects the outcome of the three surveys, which, together with the team discussions, formed the basis of the EBF recommendation. The EBF recommends a tiered approach to the design of PPB studies and the bioanalysis of PPB samples: ‘PPB screening’ experiments in (early) drug discovery versus qualified/validated procedures in drug development.

Case studies: the impact of nonanalyte components on LC–MS/MS-based bioanalysis: strategies for identifying and overcoming matrix effects

Achieving sufficient selectivity in bioanalysis is critical to ensure accurate quantitation of drugs and metabolites in biological matrices. Matrix effects most classically refer to modification of ionization efficiency of an analyte in the presence of matrix components. However, nonanalyte or matrix components present in samples can adversely impact the performance of a bioanalytical method and are broadly considered as matrix effects. For the current manuscript, we expand the scope to include matrix elements that contribute to isobaric interference and measurement bias. These three categories of matrix effects are illustrated with real examples encountered. The causes, symptoms, and suggested strategies and resolutions for each form of matrix effects are discussed. Each case is presented in the format of situation/action/result to facilitate reading.

Determination of mycotoxins in milk-based products and infant formula using stable isotope dilution assay and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

A stable isotope dilution assay and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the determination of 12 mycotoxins, aflatoxins B₁, B₂, G₁, G₂, and M₁, deoxynivalenol, fumonisins B₁, B₂, and B₃, ochratoxin A, T-2 toxin, and zearalenone, in milk-based infant formula and foods. Samples were fortified with 12 ¹³C uniformly labeled mycotoxins ([¹³C]-mycotoxins) that correspond to the 12 target mycotoxins and prepared by dilution and filtration, followed by LC-MS/MS analysis. Quantitation was achieved using the relative response factors of [¹³C]-mycotoxins and target mycotoxins. The average recoveries in fortified milk, milk-based infant formula, milk powder, and baby yogurt of aflatoxins B₁, B₂, G₁, and G₂ (2, 10, and 50 μg/kg), aflatoxin M₁ (0.5, 2.5, and 12.5 μg/kg), deoxynivalenol, fumonisins B₁, B₂, and B₃ (40, 200, and 1000 μg/kg), ochratoxin A, T-2 toxin, and zearalenone (20, 100, and 500 μg/kg), range from 89 to 126% with RSDs of <20%. The individual recoveries in the four fortified matrices range from 72% (fumonisin B₃, 20 μg/kg, milk-based infant formula) to 136% (T-2 toxin, 20 μg/kg, milk powder), with RSDs ranging from 2 to 25%. The limits of quantitation (LOQs) were from 0.01 μg/kg (aflatoxin M₁) to 2 (fumonisin B₁) μg/kg. Aflatoxin M₁ was detected in two European Reference materials at 0.127 ± 0.013 μg/kg (certified value = 0.111 ± 0.018 μg/kg) and 0.46 ± 0.04 μg/kg (certified value = 0.44 ± 0.06 μg/kg), respectively. In 60 local market samples, aflatoxins B₁ (1.14 ± 0.10 μg/kg) and B₂ (0.20 ± 0.03 μg/kg) were detected in one milk powder sample. Aflatoxin M₁ was detected in three imported samples (condensed milk, milk-based infant formula, and table cream), ranging from 0.10 to 0.40 μg/kg. The validated method provides sufficient selectivity, sensitivity, accuracy, and reproducibility to screen for aflatoxin M₁ at nanograms per kilogram concentrations and other mycotoxins, without using standard addition or matrix-matched calibration to compensate for matrix effects.

Automated determination of phenolic compounds in wine, berry, and grape samples using 96-blade solid phase microextraction system coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

An automated 96-thin-film solid phase microextraction system was optimized for high throughput analysis of phenolic compounds in wine, berry, and grape samples. Liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry methods were optimized and applied for separation and detection of compounds. Evaluation of five different stationary phases showed that polystyrene-divinylbenzene-polyacrylonitrile (PS-DVB-PAN) is the optimum extraction phase for the extraction of phenolic compounds under study. The thin-film PS-DVB-PAN SPME coating provided almost exhaustive extraction recovery for all phenolics compounds under study, except for naringenin with 80% recovery. Extraction efficiency, inter- and intra-day reproducibility, sensitivity, linearity, limit of detection and quantitation, and matrix effect were evaluated. Intra-day and inter-day reproducibility were in the respective range of 4-8 and 7-13% relative standard deviation (RSD) for all eight phenolic compounds. Limits of detection and quantitation of the proposed SPME-LC-MS/MS system for the analysis of analytes under study were found in the range of 0.2-3 and 0.5-10 ng/mL, respectively. Standard addition calibration was applied for the quantitative determination of unknown phenolic compounds from wine, berry, and grape samples. The assessment of matrix effect showed significant reduction of ion suppression/enhancement using SPME method in comparison with that of solvent extraction technique.

Challenges and benefits of endogenous steroid analysis by LC–MS/MS

Quantification of endogenous hormonal steroids and their precursors is essential for diagnosing a wide range of endocrine disorders. Historically, these analyses have been carried out using immunoassay, but such methods are problematic, especially for low-concentration analytes, due to assay interference by other endogenous steroids. MS offers improved specificity over immunoassay and can be highly sensitive. GC–MS, with use of stable isotopically labeled internal standards, is considered the ‘gold standard’ method for serum steroid analysis. GC–MS is the method of choice for profiling steroid metabolites in urine, but these techniques are not appropriate for routine use in clinical laboratories owing to a need for extensive sample preparation, as well as analytical expertise. LC–MS/MS compares well to GC–MS in terms of accuracy, precision and sensitivity, but allows simplified sample preparation. While most publications have featured only one or a limited number of steroids, we consider that steroid paneling (which we propose as the preferred term for multitargeted steroid analysis) has great potential to enable clinicians to make a definitive diagnosis. It is adaptable for use in a number of matrices, including serum, saliva and dried blood spots. However, LC–MS/MS-based steroid analysis is not straightforward, and understanding the chemical and analytical processes involved is essential for implementation of a robust clinical service. This article discusses specific challenges in the measurement of endogenous steroids using LC–MS/MS, and provides examples of the benefits it offers.

Simultaneous determination of 23 amino acids and 7 biogenic amines in fermented food samples by liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

A novel liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOFMS) method was developed for the simultaneous determination of 23 amino acids and 7 biogenic amines in food samples. These analytes were pre-column derivatized with dansyl chloride and then separated in an Acquity column (1.7 μm; 2.1 mm × 100 mm). The separation of 31 compounds including an internal standard was achieved within 25 min at a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min. The method linearity for each amino acid and biogenic amine had a relatively wide range with r(2)>0.99. The intra- and inter-day precision, expressed as relative standard deviation (RSD), ranged from 1.1 to 4.6% and from 2.0 to 11.2%, respectively. The limit of detection was between 0.005 and 0.4 μg/mL. With a simple dilution, recoveries of around 80-120% were obtained for most of the compounds. No significant matrix effect was observed, and the developed method was successfully applied to the analysis of amino acids and biogenic amines in beer, cheese and sausage samples.

Development of methods to monitor ionization modification from dosing vehicles and phospholipids in study samples

Two approaches to monitor the matrix effect on ionization in study samples were described. One approach is the addition of multiple reaction monitoring transitions to the bioanalytical methods to monitor the presence of known ionization modification-causing components of the matrix, for example, m/z 184→125 (or m/z 184→184) and m/z 133→89 may be used for phospholipids and polyethylene oxide containing surfactants, respectively. This approach requires no additional equipment and can be readily adapted for most method. The approach detects only the intended interfering compounds and provides little quantitative indication if the matrix effect is within the tolerable range (±15%). The other approach requires the addition of an infusion pump and identifies an appropriate surrogate of the analyte to be infused for the determination of modification on the ionization of the analyte. The second approach detects interferences in the sample regardless of the sources (i.e., dosing vehicle components, co-administrated drugs, their metabolites, phospholipids, plasticizers and endogenous components introduced due to disease stage).