Exploration of a new concept for automated dried blood spot analysis using flow-through desorption and online SPE–MS/MS

Abstract

Background: A new concept for simple and generic automation of dried blood spot (DBS) analysis is evaluated. Flow-through desorption of the blood spot is coupled online to SPE and MS/MS without using a LC column. Blood, spiked with a mixture of test compounds is spotted on paper, dried and then desorbed by means of a prototype clamping device. Results: Conditions for extraction and chromatography on a single SPE cartridge were optimized with respect to clean-up, separation and ionization suppression. Addition of internal standard using loop-injection upstream of the clamped blood spot was examined and proved to be simple and reliable. Validation results for the 1–1000 ng/ml range are well within acceptance criteria for bioanalysis. Conclusion: Results demonstrate feasibility of the DBS SPE–MS/MS concept for efficient automation of the entire DBS analysis workflow.