Fast and Simple Bioanalytical Plasma Sample Extraction Using Oasis® PRiME HLB SPE for High Analyte Recovery

Significance of the Topic

Reliable and efficient preparation of plasma samples is fundamental for bioanalytical assays in drug development, therapeutic monitoring and clinical research.
Streamlined workflows that minimize method development time while ensuring high analyte recovery and low matrix effects directly impact throughput and data quality in regulated laboratories.

Study Objectives and Overview

This application note evaluates the performance of Oasis PRiME HLB solid-phase extraction cartridges for small molecule pharmaceuticals in plasma.
The goal is to demonstrate a fast, universal protocol requiring no conditioning or extensive optimization, while maintaining high recovery (>79%) and minimal matrix interference (-16.2 to 5.4%).

Methodology and Instrumentation

Oasis PRiME HLB SPE cartridges were employed in a straightforward workflow: sample loading, wash to remove plasma proteins and phospholipids, followed by elution of target analytes.
No additional sorbent conditioning or equilibration steps are needed, simplifying the protocol.
Instrumentation:

• Oasis PRiME HLB SPE cartridges (Waters Corporation)
• Standard vacuum manifold or positive-pressure SPE system
• Downstream analysis typically by LC-MS/MS

Results and Discussion

Across a panel of top-selling small molecule drugs, analyte recoveries exceeded 79%, demonstrating efficient extraction.
Matrix effects were maintained between -16.2% and 5.4%, indicating effective removal of interfering lipids and proteins.
The uniform performance without protocol tuning highlights the cartridge’s broad applicability.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Key advantages of the Oasis PRiME HLB SPE method include:

• Rapid sample processing with no conditioning steps
• High and reproducible analyte recovery across diverse chemistries
• Effective matrix clean-up reducing ion suppression/enhancement
• Compatibility with high-throughput workflows in pharmacokinetic and toxicology studies

Future Trends and Opportunities

Integration of Oasis PRiME HLB SPE cartridges into automated SPE platforms will further accelerate sample throughput.
Emerging sorbent chemistries may extend this approach to larger biomolecules or more complex matrices.
Coupling simplified extraction with ultrahigh-performance LC-MS and data-driven method optimization will enhance sensitivity and robustness.

Conclusion

The Oasis PRiME HLB SPE protocol offers a fast, user-friendly solution for plasma sample preparation without compromise on recovery or matrix cleanliness.
This approach supports efficient bioanalytical workflows and can be readily adopted in pharmaceutical and clinical research settings.

References

• Williams RE and Leatherwood HM Top 200 Small Molecule Drugs by Retail Sales in 2023