A method to detect 2-keto-3-deoxyoctanat and related compounds on pherograms and chromatograms

A variation of the thiobarbituric acid spray reagent to detect 2-keto-3-deoxyoctanat (KDO), KDO derivatives, 2-deoxysugars, and N-acetylneuraminic acid on pherograms and chromatograms is described. Using all reagents in organic solvents and developing the color at room temperature, accurate locations of the spots without spreading and a low background stain are achieved.