Related Experiment Videos
EPA's non-targeted analysis collaborative trial (ENTACT): genesis, design, and initial findings
Elin M Ulrich1, Jon R Sobus2, Christopher M Grulke3
1National Exposure Research Laboratory, Office of Research & Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA. ulrich.elin@epa.gov.
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|December 7, 2018
Summary
The EPA's Non-Targeted Analysis Collaborative Trial (ENTACT) revealed significant variability in identifying chemicals using advanced analytical methods. Many detected compounds were unexpected, highlighting challenges in non-targeted analysis (NTA) data interpretation and inter-laboratory reproducibility.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Toxicology
Background:
- The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) convened experts to advance non-targeted analysis (NTA) of xenobiotic chemicals.
- Discussions focused on generating, interpreting, and exchanging NTA data, leading to the ENTACT project.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cutting-edge NTA methods using EPA resources.
- To assess the state-of-the-science in NTA through a large-scale collaborative trial.
Main Methods:
- Nearly 30 laboratories participated in the ENTACT project.
- Participants used diverse chromatography, mass spectrometry, and data processing techniques.
- Samples included synthetic chemical mixtures, standardized media extracts, and individual substances.
Main Results:
- Most participants detected more compounds than intentionally added, with high inter-laboratory variability.
- A significant portion of identified compounds were detected by only one method (45.3%).
- 15.4% of compounds remained unidentified, and disparate techniques revealed different chemical spaces.
Conclusions:
- ENTACT highlighted substantial variability and challenges in NTA workflows.
- The study underscores the need for standardized methods and improved data interpretation in NTA.
- Results provide insights into the performance of various NTA approaches for chemical characterization.