Plasma polyamines determined by negative-ion chemical ionization/mass spectrometry

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Polyamines like putrescine, spermidine, and spermine are crucial for cell growth and function.
• Accurate quantification of polyamines in biological samples is essential for understanding various physiological and pathological states.
• Existing methods for polyamine determination may lack the required sensitivity or specificity for certain applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a highly sensitive and accurate method for quantifying di- and polyamines in human plasma and erythrocytes.
• To establish a reliable analytical procedure for routine clinical and research use.

Main Methods:

• Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was employed for the analysis.
• Deuterium-labeled analogs of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine were synthesized as internal standards.
• Trifluoroacetyl derivatives were formed, and detection was performed using negative-ion chemical ionization/mass spectrometry with multiple ion monitoring.

Main Results:

• The developed GC/MS method demonstrated high accuracy and sensitivity for polyamine determination.
• Achieved limits of sensitivity ranged from 0.25 to 1.0 pmol of analyte injected.
• The use of deuterium-labeled internal standards ensured reliable quantification.

Conclusions:

• The established GC/MS procedure provides a sensitive and accurate means for quantifying polyamines in plasma and erythrocytes.
• This method is suitable for both research and potential clinical applications requiring precise polyamine level measurements.