Integration of monolithic frit into the particulate capillary (IMFPC) column in shotgun proteome analysis

FlashPack: Fast and Simple Preparation of Ultrahigh-performance Capillary Columns for LC-MS

Capillary ultrahigh-pressure liquid chromatography (cUHPLC) is essential for in-depth characterization of complex biomolecule mixtures by LC-MS. We developed a simple and fast method called FlashPack for custom packing of capillary columns of 50-100 cm length with sub- 2 μm sorbent particles. FlashPack uses high sorbent concentrations of 500-1,000 mg/ml for packing at relatively low pressure of 100 bar. Column blocking by sorbent aggregation is avoided during the packing by gentle mechanical tapping of the capillary proximal end by a slowly rotating magnet bar. Utilizing a standard 100-bar pressure bomb, Flashpack allows for production of 15-25 cm cUHPLC columns within a few minutes and of 50 cm cUHPLC columns in less than an hour. Columns exhibit excellent reproducibility of back-pressure, retention time, and resolution (CV 8.7%). FlashPack cUHPLC columns are inexpensive, robust and deliver performance comparable to commercially available cUHPLC columns. The FlashPack method is versatile and enables production of cUHPLC columns using a variety of sorbent materials.

Silica-based and organic monolithic capillary columns for LC: recent trends in proteomics

The use of monolithic liquid chromatography (LC) columns for proteomics, covering the scientific literature from 2004 to the beginning of 2011, is reviewed. Attention is paid to recent developments in column technology and materials, focusing on silica-based and organic (polystyrene and methacrylate) monolithic capillary columns for proteomics. The applicability of these columns is illustrated by examples of the analysis of (complex) protein digests and proteins conveniently summarized in tables. Furthermore, characteristics of column materials are compared and future trends and prospects are presented.