Determination of selenium in biological matrices.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Accurate determination of selenium is crucial across various scientific disciplines.
• Traditional methods like fluorometry have limitations that necessitate exploring alternative techniques.
• Advancements in instrumentation are driving the development of more accessible and precise analytical methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare various analytical methods for selenium determination.
• To highlight the advantages and limitations of different techniques for various matrices.
• To discuss the impact of new technologies and reference materials on selenium analysis.

Main Methods:

• Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) with Isotope Dilution (IDMS) offers excellent detection limits and precision.
• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) presents a promising, user-friendly alternative with matrix separation.
• Other methods discussed include fluorometry, Hydride Generation-Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (HG-AAS), and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (GFAAS) with Zeeman background correction.

Main Results:

• IDMS is a definitive method with high accuracy and precision.
• GC/MS systems are becoming more accessible, potentially increasing the popularity of IDMS.
• HG-AAS provides good sensitivity with careful sample preparation, while GFAAS with Zeeman correction is effective for complex biological matrices.

Conclusions:

• The choice of selenium determination method depends on the matrix and required sensitivity.
• Newer methods like GC/MS and improved GFAAS are enhancing selenium analysis capabilities.
• Availability of reference materials and quality assurance programs are vital for ensuring accurate and validated selenium determinations.