Analysis of Steroids Using a Core Enhanced Technology Accucore HPLC Column

Significance of the Topic

The rapid and reliable separation of steroid hormones is essential in pharmaceutical development, clinical diagnostics and quality control. Progestogens influence reproductive health and endocrine function, requiring robust analytical methods to monitor their presence and concentration in biological and environmental samples.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study assesses the performance of a core-shell HPLC column for fast and efficient separation of six progestogen steroids. The goal is to demonstrate a high-throughput method suitable for routine analysis with improved peak shape and minimal analysis time.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample preparation involved a working standard solution containing 20 µg/mL of each steroid in acetonitrile. Chromatographic conditions were optimized to achieve complete separation within a short time frame.

• Mobile phase A: water
• Mobile phase B: acetonitrile
• Gradient: 25 % B to 75 % B over four minutes
• Flow rate: 0.6 mL/min
• Column temperature: 25 °C
• Injection volume: 1.0 µL
• Detection wavelength: 254 nm UV

Instrumentation used

• Thermo Scientific Accucore RP-MS column, 2.6 µm, 100 × 2.1 mm
• Thermo Scientific Accela HPLC system with UV detector

Main Results and Discussion

The six target steroids eluted in under four minutes with excellent resolution and peak symmetry. Retention times ranged from 1.41 minutes for hydrocortisone to 4.01 minutes for progesterone. Method precision was verified by six replicate injections, yielding retention time RSD values below 0.8 %. The core-shell particle technology delivered reduced band broadening and low backpressure compared to sub-2 µm fully porous materials.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This fast HPLC method enables high sample throughput for steroid profiling in pharmaceutical QA/QC and clinical laboratories. The combination of core-shell technology and optimized phase chemistry minimizes secondary interactions, leading to sharp peaks and reproducible results. Lower backpressure extends column lifetime and supports routine operation.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Expanding this approach to larger steroid panels and coupling with mass spectrometry will enhance sensitivity and selectivity. Automation and integration into clinical workflows can accelerate hormone monitoring in patient samples. Core-shell columns may also find applications in metabolomics and environmental analysis of endocrine disruptors.

Conclusion

The Accucore RP-MS column provides a rapid, robust and reproducible solution for the analysis of progestogen steroids. Its high efficiency, low backpressure and compatibility with routine HPLC systems make it a valuable tool for laboratories requiring fast turnaround and reliable performance.

References

• Gartland J. Thermo Fisher Scientific Application Note ANCCSCETSTEROID; 2011.