LCMS is an analytical method that combines liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. It is used to systematically separate and analyse the compounds present in the sample of interest. LCMS is suitable for separating complicated mixtures and identification of unknown compounds. Its excellent sensitivity and specificity improve the efficiency of the drug discovery and development process.
What is Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry?
LCMS (full form is liquid chromatography mass spectrometry) is a combination of liquid chromatography (LC) and mass spectrometry (MS). It is an analytical method that employs chromatography separation of target compounds followed by mass-based detection. LCMS is used in biochemical research to test proteins and other molecules and in pharmaceutical development for research. Its ability to separate compounds based on molecular weight makes it indispensable in the analysis of larger molecules in the life science world.
How Does LCMS Work?
Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry works in the following way:
- After the preparation, the samples are separated and concentrated in the LC instrument (high-performance liquid chromatography)
- This passes through a column comprising of a stationary phase viz a silica or inert solid and a mobile phase viz a solvent.
- Different compounds pass through the column at different rates that effectively separate them.
- Every component reaches the end and enters the mass spectrometer chamber. In this section, every chemical species is ionized and accelerated by a flight chamber.
- The impact of the electric and magnetic field in the chamber separates the ions based on their masses and electrical charges.
- As they reach the end, a log of different molecular weights that have passed through the system is created.
Conclusion
Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry can be used for a variety of sample types and can detect several components in a sample. Providing a highly sensitive and specific analysis of complex samples, LCMS has helped to expand the horizons of analytical chemistry. Aral Research offers high-quality LCMS analysis services. Our modern lab is equipped with Water’s Acquity UPLC (Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography) with an SQ detector to ensure precise and qualitative data. We also provide other services like mass analysis, NMR services, purity by HPCL/UPLC, purity enrichment and lyphilisation services. Talk to analytical experts today.
