Linearity study on detection and quantification limits for the determination of avermectins using linear regression

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Food Safety

Background:

• Avermectins are widely used pesticides with potential environmental and food safety implications.
• Accurate determination of detection and quantification limits is crucial for regulatory compliance and risk assessment.
• Existing methods may require optimization for sensitive and reliable avermectin analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the detection limit (DL) and quantification limit (QL) for five key avermectins.
• To validate a method for avermectin analysis using linear regression and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
• To establish the linearity and reliability of the analytical method across relevant concentration ranges.

Main Methods:

• Linear regression analysis was employed to establish the relationship between avermectin response and concentration.
• Detection and quantification limits were estimated using the standard deviation of residuals and the y-intercept of the regression line.
• Avermectin extracts were analyzed via liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) following dispersive solid-phase extraction.

Main Results:

• Linear relationships between response and concentration were confirmed for all five avermectins.
• The estimated detection limit (DL) was 0.3-0.4 μg/kg and the quantification limit (QL) was 1 μg/kg for all avermectins studied.
• A significant correlation (response vs. concentration) was observed in the 1-15 μg/kg range, with y-intercepts passing through the origin.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides reliable detection and quantification limits for emamectin, abamectin, doramectin, moxidectin, and ivermectin.
• The linearity and accuracy of the LC-MS/MS method are suitable for monitoring avermectin residues in various matrices.
• This study contributes to accurate avermectin analysis, supporting food safety and environmental monitoring efforts.