Analytical methods for selected emerging contaminants in human matrices-a review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Emerging contaminants are chemicals gaining attention due to potential human health effects.
• Accurate measurement in biological samples requires sensitive and specific analytical methods.
• These contaminants include metabolites of organophosphate triesters, phthalates, perchlorate, UV filters, and siloxanes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review analytical methods for selected emerging organic contaminants in human matrices.
• To emphasize the role of new techniques while acknowledging adapted older methods.
• To discuss challenges and recommend improvements for accurate contaminant quantification.

Main Methods:

• Chromatography and mass spectrometry are the primary techniques employed.
• Methods adapted from existing contaminant analysis were also utilized.
• Focus on achieving high sensitivity for measurements at nanogram per gram levels.

Main Results:

• Chromatography and mass spectrometry offer the necessary selectivity and sensitivity for emerging contaminant analysis.
• Review covers methods for various emerging contaminants like phthalate metabolites and UV filters.
• Identified critical issues in current analytical approaches.

Conclusions:

• Advanced analytical techniques are essential for monitoring emerging contaminants.
• Further development requires labeled internal standards, certified reference materials, and interlaboratory comparisons.
• Improved methods are key to understanding human exposure and health risks.