From The Guest Editor of Advances in Sample Preparation
Guest editor Jared L. Anderson introduces the LCGC supplement 'Advances in Sample Preparation'.
Sample preparation plays a very important role in chemical analysis, and has become an integral step before chromatographic separations. Depending on the sample matrix and the overall goal of analysis, the sample preparation approach used can range from “dilute and shoot” to more laborious solid-phase extraction methods. With ongoing advances accelerating chromatographic separations, sample preparation methods must exhibit most, if not all, of the following characteristics: They must be capable of achieving rapid and high enrichment or preconcentration of target analytes; they must be tolerant of matrix effects; they must exhibit robustness under conditions commonly encountered during sampling and analysis steps; and they must demonstrate compatibility with downstream chromatographic and mass spectrometry methods. The field of sample preparation is undergoing revolutionary change, largely governed by the need for miniaturization while maintaining high selectivity and high analyte enrichment. This change has catalysed the development of new sorbent materials, as well as the design of creative geometries that possess high surface areas and facilitate rapid diffusion of analytes from a variety of samples. This supplement highlights three cutting-edge applications that illustrate some of the important advances in sample preparation.
Jared L. Anderson is a professor of chemistry at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, USA. Direct correspondence to: andersoj@iastate.edu
New Study Uses MSPE with GC–MS to Analyze PFCAs in Water
January 20th 2025Scientists from the China University of Sciences combined magnetic solid-phase extraction (MSPE) with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to analyze perfluoro carboxylic acids (PFCAs) in different water environments.
The Next Frontier for Mass Spectrometry: Maximizing Ion Utilization
January 20th 2025In this podcast, Daniel DeBord, CTO of MOBILion Systems, describes a new high resolution mass spectrometry approach that promises to increase speed and sensitivity in omics applications. MOBILion recently introduced the PAMAF mode of operation, which stands for parallel accumulation with mobility aligned fragmentation. It substantially increases the fraction of ion used for mass spectrometry analysis by replacing the functionality of the quadrupole with high resolution ion mobility. Listen to learn more about this exciting new development.
A Guide To Finding the Ideal Syringe and Needle
January 20th 2025Hamilton has produced a series of reference guides to assist science professionals in finding the best-suited products and configurations for their applications. The Syringe and Needle Reference Guide provides detailed information on Hamilton Company’s full portfolio of syringes and needles. Everything from cleaning and preventative maintenance to individual part numbers are available for review. It also includes selection charts to help you choose between syringe terminations like cemented needles and luer tips.
The Complexity of Oligonucleotide Separations
January 9th 2025Peter Pellegrinelli, Applications Specialist at Advanced Materials Technology (AMT) explains the complexity of oligonucleotide separations due to the unique chemical properties of these molecules. Issues such as varying length, sequence complexity, and hydrophilic-hydrophobic characteristics make efficient separations difficult. Separation scientists are addressing these challenges by modifying mobile phase compositions, using varying ion-pairing reagents, and exploring alternative separation modes like HILIC and ion-exchange chromatography. Due to these complexities, AMT has introduced the HALO® OLIGO column, which offers high-resolution, fast separations through its innovative Fused-Core® technology and high pH stability. Alongside explaining the new column, Peter looks to the future of these separations and what is next to come.
Oasis or Sand Dune? Isolation of Psychedelic Compounds
January 20th 2025Magic mushrooms, once taboo, have recently experienced a renaissance. This new awakening is partially due to new findings that indicate the effects of psilocybin, and its dephosphorylated cousin psilocin may produce long lasting results for patients who might be struggling with anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Hamilton Company has developed a methodology for the isolation and identification of 5 common psychedelic compounds used in the potential treatment of disease. The PRP-1 HPLC column resin remains stable in the harsh alkaline conditions ideal for better separations.
