Researchers from the USA have developed a simple and derivatization-free gas chromatography (GC) method for the quantitative analysis of oleic acid and related fatty acids.
Photo Credit: duncan1890/ Getty Images
Researchers from the USA have developed a simple and derivatization-free gas chromatography (GC) method for the quantitative analysis of oleic acid and related fatty acids.1
A common pharmaceutical excipient, oleic acid is widely used for long-term stabilization, solid formation bulking, and for the therapeutic enhancement of active ingredients including serving as an emulsion agent in topical pharmaceutical formulations and a solubility enhancer for gastrointestinal tract delivery.
The importance of oleic acids to the pharmaceutical industry has led to a variety of analytical methods being developed with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) the most common.1
However, HPLC separation of fatty acids is not perfect. The absence of chromophores or fluorescent functional groups2 means the majority of HPLC methods in the literature require a derivatization process prior to analysis; those without a derivatization process suffer from poor sensitivity.3
Gas chromatography offers an alternative for the analysis of fatty acids and is commonly used. Unfortunately, GC methods suffer from a similar issue to HPLC, requiring a derivatization process because of the high boiling points of fatty acids.4
A laborious, tedious, and time-consuming process, derivatization, while effective, often results in lower accuracy and precision5 - two undeniably unwanted side effects. The aim of this
study was to develop a simple method for oleic acid and related fatty acid analysis, free from a derivatization process, but capable of accurate and robust analysis suitable for use in a quality controlled laboratory.
The method developed used a nitroterephthalic acid modified polyethylene glycol (PEG) capillary GC column as well as a flame ionization detector (FID). The sample preparation procedure was simple and straightforward requiring no derivatization. The method successfully separated 15 fatty acids in a total run time of 20 min. This was validated and proved to be specific, precise, and accurate for the analysis of oleic acid and related fatty acids. - L.B.
References
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 ions 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.
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.
PFAS Identified in Smartwatch and Fitness Bands Using LC–MS/MS
January 28th 2025“Forever chemicals” per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been found in smartwatch and fitness bands and analyzed using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and direct total oxidative precursor (dTOP) assay.