Thermo Scientific Prelude SPLC System

Importance of the topic

Clinical research and toxicology laboratories require highly selective and quantitative methods to analyze trace compounds in complex biological matrices. Conventional immunoassays can lack specificity, while gas chromatography–mass spectrometry often demands extensive sample preparation. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) offers superior sensitivity and accuracy, establishing it as the standard for targeted bioanalysis.

Objectives and system overview

This document introduces the Thermo Scientific Prelude SPLC sample preparation and liquid chromatography system, designed to simplify LC/MS workflows in clinical research and toxicology settings. The goal is to showcase how integrated online cleanup, dual‐channel separations and preconfigured methods accelerate data acquisition, enhance reproducibility and reduce operational complexity.

Methodology and instrumentation

The Prelude SPLC system merges two high‐performance liquid chromatography channels with automated TurboFlow online sample cleanup and a single triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. Key features include

• TurboFlow technology for automated removal of matrix interferences and analyte enrichment
• Accucore microparticulate analytical columns delivering fast, high‐resolution UHPLC separations
• Syringe pump architecture providing precise low‐volume gradients at flow rates from 10 to 2000 µL/min and pressures up to 1000 bar
• Refrigerated sample introduction from deep‐well plates or 2 mL vials to preserve sample integrity during runs
• Thermo Scientific TSQ Endura mass spectrometer for sensitive and selective MS/MS detection
• TraceFinder software offering unified control for LC, MS operation, data processing and reporting
• Optional remote diagnostic software for real‐time system monitoring and proactive maintenance alerts

Key results and discussion

Performance evaluations demonstrate

• Consistent chromatographic separations over 500 injections of pooled human serum samples, with MS area count RSDs below 10 percent without internal standard correction
• Sensitive quantitation of immunosuppressants (tacrolimus, sirolimus, everolimus, cyclosporin A) and vitamin D metabolites at low ng/mL levels
• Dual‐channel operation feeding a single mass spectrometer, effectively doubling MS utilization and sample throughput compared to conventional single‐LC systems

This multiplexed approach confirms reliable data quality while significantly increasing analytical capacity.

Benefits and practical applications

By integrating automated online cleanup and parallel UHPLC separations, the Prelude SPLC system

• Reduces manual sample preparation time and reagent consumption
• Maximizes utilization of MS hardware and lab resources
• Delivers reproducible results with minimal operator expertise
• Lowers overall operating costs by eliminating outsourcing and minimizing solvent use

These advantages support applications in therapeutic drug monitoring, toxicology screens and routine clinical assays.

Future trends and possibilities

Emerging column chemistries and enhanced MS sensitivity will extend dynamic range and multiplexing potential. Integration with laboratory information management systems and cloud‐based analytics promises real‐time quality control, remote troubleshooting and streamlined data workflows. Further developments may expand use cases into metabolomics, high‐throughput screening and personalized medicine.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific Prelude SPLC system makes high‐performance LC/MS accessible to clinical research and toxicology labs by combining automated sample cleanup, dual inline separations and preprogrammed methods. This integrated workflow improves analytical confidence, accelerates time to results and reduces operational costs.