Sensitive LC MS quantitative analysis of carbohydrates by Cs+ attachment

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Accurate quantification of carbohydrates in human plasma is crucial for understanding various metabolic pathways and diseases.
• Existing methods for carbohydrate analysis may lack sensitivity, require complex sample preparation, or involve derivatization steps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive, robust, and rapid assay for the quantitative analysis of carbohydrates in human plasma.
• To utilize cesium cationization and LC/MS/MS for improved carbohydrate detection and measurement.

Main Methods:

• Development of a normal phase liquid chromatography method using an amino-based column for carbohydrate separation.
• Application of cesium (Cs+) cationization to form quasi-molecular ions [M + Cs]+ for neutral carbohydrates.
• Utilizing electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) operated in positive ion mode.
• Implementing multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) for highly sensitive and specific detection.

Main Results:

• The developed assay demonstrates high sensitivity and robustness for carbohydrate quantification.
• The method is rapid and does not require post-column addition or derivatization of samples.
• Successful application of Cs+ cationization for forming [M + Cs]+ ions with neutral carbohydrates.

Conclusions:

• A novel and efficient LC/MS/MS assay for human plasma carbohydrate analysis has been established.
• This method is suitable for clinical research, offering accurate measurement of carbohydrate molecules via isotope dilution assay.
• The assay's sensitivity, speed, and simplicity make it a valuable tool for biomedical research.