Shared-autosampler parallel LC-MS/MS platform for high-throughput multi-analyte quantification in complex matrices.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Simultaneous quantification of diverse analytes in complex matrices is challenging for single LC-MS methods.
• Existing methods often face limitations in mobile-phase compatibility and dead volumes, especially in 2D-LC setups.
• High-throughput analysis is crucial for modern analytical demands.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a shared-autosampler parallel LC-MS/MS strategy for efficient multi-analyte quantification.
• To overcome the limitations of traditional LC-MS and 2D-LC methods.
• To demonstrate the strategy's flexibility and performance in complex matrix applications.

Main Methods:

• Developed a parallel LC-MS/MS system with two independent LC pathways sharing one autosampler and MS detector.
• Implemented sequential execution of two distinct chromatographic methods within a single analytical cycle.
• Utilized selective Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) acquisition and data-level signal integration without inter-dimensional coupling.

Main Results:

• Successfully quantified 394 emerging contaminants in human serum within 28 min using an acidic/basic dual-method configuration.
• Achieved simultaneous determination of 27 hypoglycemic agents across a wide log P range in a single 20 min run using HILIC/RP columns.
• Demonstrated good linearity, low limits of quantification (<0.20 ng/mL for >90% analytes), and high precision (RSDs <10%) in both applications.

Conclusions:

• The shared-autosampler parallel LC-MS/MS strategy offers a flexible and efficient platform for high-throughput quantification.
• This method improves analytical throughput without requiring additional MS or autosampler hardware.
• The strategy effectively addresses challenges in analyzing chemically diverse analytes within complex matrices.