LCGC North America-10-01-2007

How to avoid an expensive shot in the dark.

Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) is the most widespread tandem technique in the analytical instrumentation industry. In fact, these systems account for the largest installed base of mass spectrometry instruments.

An ultrahigh-pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) method was developed to separate paroxetine from several of its related compounds using a systematic screening protocol that monitors combinations of selectivity factors including column chemistry, organic modifier, and pH. When the best combination of these factors was selected, the method was optimized by varying gradient slope and temperature.

Quantitative assessment of protein expression in biological systems in response to perturbations is an important element in the discovery and validation of biomarkers and drug targets. This can be a challenging task given the complexity and dynamic range of biological extracts. Many methods are currently in use to address protein quantification. This installment of "Directions in Discovery" reviews several of the more popular ones and reports on a collaborative study organized by the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities.

HPLC 2007 was held in Ghent, Belgium in June. Last month, columnist Ron Majors summarized some the important column developments as well as other Symposium highlights. This month, he winds up coverage with additional highlights in the areas of technology and applications. Among the topics covered are stationary phase preparation and characterization, multi-dimensional and comprehensive LC, temperature studies, detectors and an application overview.

"As research advances, about half of what we will teach you . . . will turn out to be wrong. The problem is, we presently don't know which half." Powerful Medicines, Jerry Avorn, 2004

Ron Majors awarded gold medal; Airgas acquires Dantack; Molex acquires Polymicro