Applications of In-tube SPME for Bioanalysis

Abstract

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has become the reference technique for bioanalysis, due to its high sensitivity and selectivity. In bioanalysis, a sample preparation step is usually necessary to eliminate most endogenous compounds and to concentrate the target analytes that often exist at trace levels in biological matrixes. Recent trends in biological sample preparation have focused on miniaturized systems, the development of selective new sorbent materials, and high throughput performance with online coupling to analytical instruments. A miniaturized system requires a smaller amount of sample and organic solvents, and an online system reduces the sample preparation steps, analysis time, and costs and improves accuracy. In this context, online capillary solid-phase microextraction (in-tube SPME) coupled to LC systems is worth mentioning. This technique uses a capillary column as the extraction device and enables continuous extraction, concentration, and desorption online with LC systems. This chapter describes the principle of in-tube SPME-LC, configurations, optimization of parameters, new stationary phases, bioanalysis application, and the present state of this technique and summarizes current trends and future perspectives.