Microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) to analyze catecholamines in innovative biological samples

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Catecholamine analysis is crucial for diagnosing various conditions.
• Traditional methods for catecholamine quantification often require large sample volumes and complex preparation.
• Dried biological matrices offer advantages for sample collection and storage but present unique analytical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) method coupled with HPLC for catecholamine analysis.
• To quantitate norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine in dried plasma and urine spots.
• To assess the method's performance in diverse patient populations.

Main Methods:

• A microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) procedure using a C18 sorbent was optimized for dried plasma and urine spots.
• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a C18 reversed-phase column was employed.
• Coulometric detection with dual analytical cells was utilized for sensitive quantification.

Main Results:

• The MEPS procedure demonstrated high extraction yields (>85%) and required minimal biological sample.
• The method achieved good sensitivity with a limit of quantitation of 100 pg mL(-1) for all catecholamines.
• Excellent linearity, precision, and accuracy were observed.
• The method was successfully applied to analyze catecholamines in dried samples from psychiatric patients, poly-drug abusers, and healthy volunteers.

Conclusions:

• The developed MEPS-HPLC method is a sensitive, accurate, and efficient technique for catecholamine analysis in dried biological samples.
• This miniaturized approach is suitable for pre-treatment and analysis of catecholamines, addressing specific requirements.
• The method's successful application across diverse groups highlights its potential for clinical and research settings.