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An advanced LC-MS (Q-TOF) technique for the detection of amino acids in atmospheric aerosols
Citation:
Samy, S., J. Robinson, AND M. D. HAYS. An advanced LC-MS (Q-TOF) technique for the detection of amino acids in atmospheric aerosols. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry. Springer, New York, NY, 401(10):3103-3113, (2011).
Impact/Purpose:
journal article
Description:
Methodology for detection of native (underivitized) amino acids in atmospheric aerosols has been developed. This article describes the use of LC-MS (Q-TOF) and microwave-assisted gas phase hydrolysis for detection of free and combined amino acids in aerosols collected in a Southeastern U.S. forest environment. The benefit of accurate mass detection and the addition of isotopically-labeled surrogates prior to sample preparation allow for sensitive quantitation of target amino acids (AA) in a complex aerosol matrix. A total of 16 native AA were detected above the reporting threshold as water-soluble free AA, with an average concentration of 22 ± 9 ng m-3 (N=13). Following microwave-assisted gas phase hydrolysis, the total AA concentration in the forest environment increased significantly (70±35 ng m-3) and additional compounds (methionine, isoleucine) were detected above the reporting threshold. The ability to quantify AA in aerosol samples without derivatization reduces time consuming preparation procedures while providing the advancement of selective mass determination for important organic nitrogen (ON) species. Details on sample preparation that eliminates the freeze-drying approach typically practiced for water removal with biological samples, and hydrolysis parameters are provided. Method application for determination of atmospheric ON is discussed.
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AN ADVANCED LC-MS (Q-TOF) TECHNIQUE FOR THE DETECTION OF AMINO ACIDS IN ATMOSPHERIC AEROSOLS
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