Derivatization of steroids in biological samples for GC-MS and LC-MS analyses

• Published in: Bioanalysis Vol. 7; no. 19; pp. 2515 - 2536
• Main Authors: Marcos, Josep, Pozo, Oscar J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01-10-2015
• Subjects: Adrenal Cortex Hormones - analysis; Adrenal Cortex Hormones - chemistry; Adrenal Cortex Hormones - metabolism; Aldehydes - chemistry; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; Humans; Hydroxides - chemistry; Ketones - chemistry; Mass Spectrometry; Phenols - chemistry; Steroids - analysis; Steroids - chemistry; Steroids - metabolism
• ISSN: 1757-6180; 1757-6199
• DOI: 10.4155/bio.15.176

The determination of steroids in biological samples is essential in different areas of knowledge. MS combined with either GC or LC is considered the best analytical technique for specific and sensitive determinations. However, due to the physicochemical properties of some steroids, and the low concentrations found in biological samples, the formation of a derivative prior to their analysis is required. In GC-MS determinations, derivatization is needed for generating volatile and thermally stable compounds. The improvement in terms of stability and chromatographic retention are the main reasons for selecting the derivatization agent. On the other hand, derivatization is not compulsory in LC-MS analyses and the derivatization is typically used for improving the ionization and therefore the overall sensitivity achieved.