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Flow-through 3D-printed device for automatic microsampling and handling of dried urine spots
Sara R Fernandes1, Diana R Cunha2, Federica Guidetti2
1LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal; ESS, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 400, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.
Talanta
|November 2, 2025
Summary
A novel 3D-printed device enables automated sample preparation for detecting anticoagulants in urine using flow analysis and mass spectrometry. This environmentally friendly method offers high accuracy and precision for bioanalytical applications.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Bioanalysis
- 3D Printing Technology
Background:
- 3D printing offers miniaturized, high-precision devices for analytical chemistry.
- 3D printing combined with flow analysis and mass spectrometry can streamline bioanalysis sample handling.
- Automated sample collection and pre-treatment are crucial for efficient bioanalytical workflows.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and develop a customized 3D-printed device for integrated sampling, clean-up, and analyte retrieval.
- To apply this device in a flow system for the fully automated extraction of anticoagulants from human urine.
- To validate the developed method for the detection of apixaban, rivaroxaban, and warfarin using UHPLC-MS/MS.
Main Methods:
- Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing was used to fabricate a customized device incorporating filter paper for sample collection and elution.
- The device was integrated into a flow network for automated sample processing.
- Optimization of printing parameters, eluent composition, and hydrodynamic conditions was performed.
- Analysis was conducted using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) in positive ionization mode.
Main Results:
- The 3D-printed device successfully integrated sampling and separation procedures.
- The method demonstrated excellent linearity (r² > 0.998) for the target anticoagulants.
- Achieved low limits of detection (LOD: 0.06–0.2 μg L⁻¹) and quantification (LOQ: 0.1–0.5 μg L⁻¹).
- The method exhibited high accuracy (97.0–102%) and precision (CV ≤ 6.0%).
Conclusions:
- The developed 3D-printed device provides an efficient, practical, and environmentally friendly solution for automated bioanalysis.
- This approach is suitable for the on-site or point-of-care detection of anticoagulants in human urine.
- The integration of 3D printing with flow analysis and mass spectrometry represents a significant advancement in bioanalytical sample preparation.
