UPLC for polar alkaloids

<p><span>Does anyone have experience using UPLC for separation and quantification of polar alkaloids? Something similar to caffeine? I have a student who is interested in studying alkaloids in Psychotria, and they're quite polar. I'd prefer to try reverse phase first before trying HILIC, but I thought I'd ask if anyone has tried. Thanks in advance. M.</span></p>

Answers

  • Mark, there has been quite a bit of work done on analyzing polar drugs. The column most often used is the ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 chemistry since it is designed to retain polar compounds. I've attached a pdf with a few random separations. Please let us know if you have any questions.

    Good luck,

    --Doug

  • Thanks Doug - that's just what I was looking for. I'll give it a try and will let you know.

    Best,

    Mark

  • Use the BEH particle and analyse at a pH above the basic pKa (probably >pH 7.5) for the alkaloid you are testing. This gives better retention and peak shape than using HSS T3 in my experience.