Advanced sample preparation in LC/MS bioanalysis using new solid phase extraction

Importance of the Topic

Sample preparation is a critical step in LC/MS bioanalysis, directly affecting throughput, data quality and overall analytical cost. Efficient extraction of target analytes from complex matrices such as plasma ensures reliable quantitation of pharmaceuticals and metabolites.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study describes the development and evaluation of a new solid phase extraction (SPE) cartridge based on SHIMSEN Styra HLB for simultaneous cleanup and concentration of ten pharmaceutical compounds spiked into human plasma. The performance of the new SPE device was compared against five commercially available cartridges under identical conditions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The optimized SPE protocol consisted of four sequential steps:

• Conditioning with methanol (1 mL)
• Equilibration with water (1 mL)
• Sample loading: 200 µL plasma spiked with analytes, processed at one drop per second
• Washing with 5 % methanol (400 µL) and elution with methanol (500 µL)

Chromatographic separation was performed on a Shim-pack Scepter C18-120 (150 mm × 2.1 mm I.D., 1.9 µm) column using a gradient of 0.1 % formic acid in water (mobile phase A) and 0.1 % formic acid in acetonitrile (mobile phase B). Flow rate was set to 0.5 mL/min and column temperature 40 °C. Detection used a Shimadzu Nexera X3 UHPLC coupled to an LCMS-8050 triple quadrupole mass spectrometer operating in positive ESI-MRM mode.

Main Results and Discussion

The new SPE cartridge provided recoveries greater than 80 % for all ten compounds, with relative standard deviations below 7 %. Compared to five reference products, the SHIMSEN Styra HLB device showed equivalent or superior extraction efficiency. Elution times were reduced to approximately 34 s versus 61–150 s for competitive cartridges. High flow rates through the SPE bed obviated the need for pressurization or aspiration, simplifying processing of protein‐rich plasma.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The method delivers high analyte recovery, low variability and shortened processing time. It can be readily adopted in pharmaceutical bioanalysis workflows, including pharmacokinetic studies, therapeutic drug monitoring, and quality control applications.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances in SPE materials and formats may further enhance automation and throughput. Integration with 96-well formats and online SPE–LC/MS systems can support large‐scale studies. Expansion to other biological matrices and emerging analyte classes will broaden the applicability of these extraction technologies.

Conclusion

The newly developed SHIMSEN Styra HLB SPE cartridge offers robust and efficient sample preparation for LC/MS bioanalysis of pharmaceuticals. It achieves high recovery, low variability and rapid processing without specialized equipment.

Reference

No literature references were provided in the original text.