A high throughput mass spectrometry screening analysis based on two-dimensional carbon microfiber fractionation...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Separation Science
• Mass Spectrometry

Background:

• Traditional analytical methods often face challenges with complex sample matrices, leading to interference and ionization suppression.
• Efficient separation of compounds with varying polarities is crucial for comprehensive sample analysis.
• Developing high-throughput, solvent-saving techniques is essential for modern analytical laboratories.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel integrated two-dimensional microscale carbon fiber system (2DμCFs) for rapid compound separation.
• To couple 2DμCFs with ambient ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) for enhanced screening and quantitative analysis.
• To demonstrate the system's capability in analyzing complex natural product extracts with reduced interference and improved sensitivity.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a two-dimensional microscale carbon fiber/active carbon fiber system (2DμCFs) for sample separation.
• Coupling of the 2DμCFs system with ambient ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-Q-TOF-MS and ESI-QqQ-MS).
• Application to the analysis of Schisandra Chinensis extracts and validation with model compounds.

Main Results:

• The 2DμCFs system significantly reduced interference and ionization suppression effects.
• Simultaneous determination of 33 compounds (organic acids, lignans, flavonoids) from Schisandra Chinensis extracts in under 7 minutes.
• Achieved low limits of detection (0.3–30 ngmL⁻¹), good recoveries (75.8–93.2%), and high reproducibility (RSDs 1.40–8.06%).

Conclusions:

• The developed 2DμCFs coupled with ESI-MS is a versatile, high-throughput, and solvent-saving analytical method.
• This approach enhances sensitivity and screening capabilities for complex real-world samples.
• The system offers efficient separation and simultaneous quantification of diverse compounds, demonstrating its practical utility.