Oasis Prime HLB – The Fastest way to Clean Samples

Importance of the Topic

In bioanalytical laboratories, efficient sample preparation is critical to ensure reliable results, high throughput and minimal instrument downtime. Phospholipid removal enhances chromatographic performance and mass spectrometer cleanliness, contributing to longer column life and reduced maintenance.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study evaluates a simplified two-step solid phase extraction (SPE) protocol using Oasis PRiME HLB sorbent, aiming to accelerate sample cleanup while maintaining analyte recoveries across diverse small molecule drugs.

Methodology

A comparison was made between the original three-step SPE procedure (sample loading, 5:95% methanol:water wash, 90:10% acetonitrile:methanol elution) and a streamlined two-step approach omitting the wash. Fourteen small molecule drugs were extracted and analyzed using a rapid LC-MS workflow with a generic gradient from 5 to 95% organic over two minutes (total run time three minutes). Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions were generated via Intellistart software.

Used Instrumentation

• ACQUITY Premier LC System with ACQUITY Premier HSS T3 column (2.1 x 50 mm)
• Xevo TQ-Absolute Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer
• Intellistart for MRM transition development

Main Results and Discussion

Both protocols yielded comparable percent recoveries for all fourteen analytes, demonstrating that the wash step can be safely omitted for rapid applications. Simplification reduced solvent consumption and overall preparation time without compromising assay robustness.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Over 95% phospholipid removal for cleaner samples
• Faster workflow with two steps only (load and elute)
• Broad applicability across diverse compound classes
• Reduced instrument maintenance and extended column lifetime

Future Trends and Opportunities

Ongoing developments may focus on further automation, integration with high-throughput platforms, and expansion to more complex matrices. Combining SPE improvements with advanced mass spectrometry techniques could enhance sensitivity and speed in bioanalysis.

Conclusion

The two-step Oasis PRiME HLB SPE protocol offers a rapid and user-friendly alternative to traditional three-step methods, delivering adequate recoveries and efficient phospholipid cleanup for routine bioanalytical workflows.