Toxicological Analysis Overview
Toxicological analysis of body fluids is crucial for identifying acute poisoning, drug abuse, or illegal substance use. These analyses are resource-intensive due to complex sample pretreatment and identification methods. Quick tests like immunological assays provide initial results, while chromatographic methods offer detailed identification and quantitative information.
Prominence TOX.I.S. System
The TOX.I.S. system utilizes HPLC hardware with a special column-switching procedure for urine sample pretreatment, including cleaning and rinsing steps to remove proteins and other components. It also supports blood/serum sample analysis after a separate extraction procedure.
Analysis Procedure
Shimadzu HPLC modules are reliable and high-performing, suitable for standalone use or controlled by software. Detection and identification are performed using a photodiode-array detector with library searches. The system was developed in collaboration with experts from the Institute of Toxicology, Berlin.
Sample Processing
Urine samples undergo centrifugation, internal standard addition, and are placed in an autosampler. They are transferred to an extraction column for protein removal, then to an analytical separation system. Peaks are identified by retention times and library comparison, generating a report with peak information.
Automated Analysis
The system automates poison and drug analysis for urine and serum samples, involving steps like centrifugation, extraction, and separation. It effectively detects substances like MDA, MDMA, methadone, morphine, and codeine.
UV Spectral Library
The UVTOX library, developed over 15 years, contains 3260 toxic compounds and is essential for accurate identification. It requires continuous updates with new reference compounds and measurements.
System Features
The TOX.I.S. system is fully automated, uses standard HPLC modules, and offers easy sample pretreatment. It includes a standard operating procedure for daily validation and performance checks, and a UV library for urine analysis.
Contact InformationShimadzu Europa GmbH, Albert-Hahn-Str. 6-10, D-47269 Duisburg. Tel.: +49 - (0)203 - 76 87-0, Email:
[email protected]