Direct spectrofluorimetric methods as alternatives to compendial ones used for the quality control of biopharmaceuticals: development, validation and application

Abstract A simple, rapid, precise, accurate and sustainable spectrofluorimetric method (SFM) was developed, validated and applied for the determination of 4-aminobenzoic acid and aromatic amino acids (phenylalanine, tryptophan and tyrosine). These compounds are used in biopharmaceutical formulations and therefore must be analyzed by quality control laboratories to meet the criteria established in pharmacopoeias. In general, potentiometric titration (PT) is described in the compendia as the official analytical technique. However, this method showed low sensitivity and selectivity, and moreover was performed with a non-aqueous solvent (acetic acid), which led to higher consumption of reagents and consequently to the formation of residues. Therefore, the SFM was developed in aqueous medium at pH 7.2 using phosphate buffer. It was successfully validated according to the ICH guidelines and showed good linearity range (r>0.999), specificity, accuracy and precision (within and between days) and robustness. The test results were compared between the SFM and PT using raw material samples, while according to the F- and t-tests at 95% confidence level, no statistical difference was found between the methods.

Validación de un método analítico para cuantificación de ferritina en líquido cefalorraquídeo / Validation of an analytical method for the quantification of ferritin in cerebrospinal fluid

Resumen La ferritina es una proteína de gran tamaño que se encuentra fisiológicamente en el líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) en concentraciones de 2-10 ng/mL. Su elevación puede utilizarse como biomarcador en distintas condiciones patológicas. El procedimiento de validación tradicional para la medición en LCR no puede ser utilizado debido a la ausencia de controles y calibradores comerciales para esta matriz. El objetivo de este trabajo fue llevar a cabo una validación analítica de ferritina en LCR. Se realizaron ensayos de estimación de precisión y veracidad mediante el protocolo EP15-A3, linealidad por el protocolo EP6-A (ambos de la guía de la CLSI), recuperación, estabilidad, contaminación por arrastre, interferencia por hemólisis y bilirrubina y límite de detección (LoD). La ferritina en LCR en el autoanalizador DxI 800 de Beckman Coulter tuvo una performance intra e interensayo <3,7%, el ensayo denota linealidad en el intervalo de 2,1-547 ng/mL; se estableció estabilidad por un período de 5 días y la recuperación resultó ser aceptable. No se evidenció efecto de contaminación por arrastre ni interferencia por hemólisis hasta un rango entre 300-500 mg/dL de hemoglobina, ni interferencia por bilirrubina hasta una concentración de 16,0 mg/dL de bilirrubina total. El LoD fue de 0,4 ng/mL. Por medio de los ensayos realizados se logró validar la ferritina en LCR a partir de la utilización de pools de muestras, lo que pudo garantizar la confiabilidad y exactitud del método analítico.

Abstract Ferritin is a large protein physiologically present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in concentrations of 2-10 ng/mL. Its elevation can be used as a biomarker in several pathological conditions. The traditional validation procedure for measurement in CSF cannot be used due to the absence of commercial controls and calibrators for this matrix. The objective of the present study was to perform CSF ferritin analytical validation. Assays such as precision and accuracy estimation through the EP15-A3 protocol, linearity according to the EP6-A protocol (both from the CLSI guidelines), recovery, stability, carry-over, hemolysis and bilirubin interference and limit of detection (LoD) were conducted. Serum samples with different concentrations of ferritin were added to aliquots of a normal CSF pool. CSF ferritin in the Beckman Coulter DxI 800 had a <3.7% intra and inter-assay performance, the assay shows linearity in the 2.1 -547 ng/mL interval, stability was established for a 5-day period and the recovery was acceptable. There was neither carry-over effect or hemolysis interference up to a range of 300-500 mg/dL of hemoglobin, nor interference by bilirubin up to 16.0 mg/dL of total bilirubin. The LoD was 0.4 ng/mL. By means of the performed assays, CSF ferritin was validated by using sample pools, thereby ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the analytical method.

Resumo A ferritina é uma grande proteína fisiologicamente encontrada no líquido cefalorraquidiano (LCR) em concentrações de 2 a 10 ng/mL. Sua elevação pode ser usada como biomarcador em diferentes condições patológicas. O procedimento de validação tradicional para medição no LCR não pode ser usado devido à ausência de controles e calibradores comerciais para esta matriz. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma validação analítica da ferritina no LCR. Foram realizados estudos de precisão e veracidade utilizando o protocolo EP15-A3, linearidade pelo protocolo EP6-A (ambos das diretrizes do CLSI), recuperação, estabilidade, contaminação transportada, interferência de hemólise e bilirrubina e limite de detecção (LoD). A ferritina no LCR no DxI 800 da Beckman Coulter teve um desempenho intra e inter-ensaio <3,7%, o ensaio denota linearidade na faixa de 2,1-547 ng/mL, a estabilidade foi estabelecida em um período de 5 dias e a recuperação foi considerado aceitável. Nenhum efeito de transporte ou interferência por hemólise foi evidenciado até um intervalo entre 300-500 mg/dL de hemoglobina, nem interferência pela bilirrubina até uma concentração de 16,0 mg/dL de bilirrubina total. O LoD foi de 0,4 ng/mL. Através dos testes realizados, a ferritina no LCR foi validada, com base no uso de pool de amostras, o que poderia garantir a confiabilidade e a acurácia do método analítico.

Simultaneous determination of sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim and bromhexine in veterinary formulation using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)

Objetivo: desarrollar y validar un método simple, sensible y rápido para la determinación simultánea de sulfametoxazol (SMT), trimetoprima (TMP) y bromhexina (BMX) en formulación veterinaria por cromatografía líquida de alta resolución de acuerdo con las directrices de validación y control. Guía para la calidad analítica de medicamentos en productos alimenticios y medicamentos veterinarios, RDC 166/2017 y guías internacionales Conferencia Internacional sobre Armonización y Asociación Internacional de Químicos Analíticos Oficiales. Materiales y métodos: la separación se realizó en una columna analítica ThermoScientific® C18 AcclaimTM120 (4,6 x 250 mm, 5 µm), con caudal de 0,7 mL min-1 y detección a 245 nm, 265 nm y 271 nm, para BMX, SMT y TMP, respectivamente. Todas las mediciones se realizaron en metanol:agua (84:16 v/v; pH 3,0). Las curvas analíticas fueron lineales (r > 0,9997) en el rango de concentración de 15.0 a 30.0 µg-mL-1 para SMT, 3.0 a 9.0 µg-mL-1 para TMP y 0,5 a 2,0 µg-mL-1 para BMX. Resultados: el método demostró ser preciso con coeficientes de variación por debajo del límite máximo de 2,0%, robusto, sin influencia significativa de las variaciones utilizadas en el análisis, exacto (recuperación >99%) y selectivo, en la evaluación de la interferencia de adyuvantes Conclusión: por lo tanto, el método desarrollado demostró ser adecuado para los análisis de control de calidad de rutina para la determinación simultánea de SMT, TMP y BMX en formulaciones farmacéuticas.

SUMMARY Aim: To develop and to validate a simple, sensitive and fast method for the simultaneous determination of sulfamethoxazole (SMT), trimethoprim (TMP) and bromhexine (BMX) in veterinary formulation by high performance liquid chromatography according to the guidelines of the Validation and Control Guide for analytical quality of medicines in food products and veterinary medicines, RDC 166/2017 and international guides International Conference on Harmonization and International Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Materials and methods: The separation was performed on a ThermoScientific® C18 AcclaimTM120 analytical column (4.6 X 250 mm, 5 µm), with a flow rate of 0.7 mL min-1 and detection at 245 nm, 265 nm and 271 nm, for BMX, SMT and TMP, respectively. All measurements were performed in methanol: water (84:16 v/v; pH 3.0). The analytical curves were linear (r > 0.9997) in the concentration range of 15.0 to 30.0 µg-mL-1 for SMT, 3.0 to 9.0 µg-mL-1 for TMP and 0.5 to 2.0 µg-mL-1 for BMX. Results: The method proved to be accurate, with coefficients of variation below the maximum limit of 2.0%, robust, without significant influence of the variations used in the analysis, exact (recovery >99%) and selective, in the assessment of interference from adjuvants. Conclusion: Therefore, the developed method proved to be suitable for routine quality control analyzes for the simultaneous determination of SMT, TMP and BMX in pharmaceutical formulations.

Objetivo: desenvolver e validar um método simples, sensível e rápido para a determinação simultânea de sulfametoxazol (SMT), trimetoprima (TMP) e bromexina (BMX) em formulação veterinária por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência de acordo com as diretrizes do Validation and Control Guia de qualidade analítica de medicamentos em produtos alimentícios e medicamentos veterinários, RDC 166/2017 e guias internacionais Conferência Internacional de Harmonização e Associação Internacional de Químicos Analíticos Oficiais. Materiais e métodos: a separação foi realizada em coluna analítica ThermoScientific® C18 AcclaimTM120 (4,6 X 250 mm, 5 µm), com vazão de 0,7 mL min-1 e detecção em 245 nm, 265 nm e 271 nm, para BMX , SMT e TMP, respectivamente. Todas as medições foram realizadas em metanol:água (84:16 v/v; pH 3,0). As curvas analíticas foram lineares (r > 0,9997) na faixa de concentração de 15,0 a 30,0 µg-mL-1 para SMT, 3,0 a 9,0 µg-mL-1 para TMP e 0,5 a 2,0 µg-mL-1 para BMX. Resultados: o método mostrou-se preciso, com coeficientes de variação abaixo do limite máximo de 2,0%, robusto, sem influência significativa das variações utilizadas na análise, exato (recuperação >99%) e seletivo, na avaliação da interferência de adjuvantes. Conclusão: portanto, o método desenvolvido mostrou-se adequado para análises de controle de qualidade de rotina para a determinação simultânea de SMT, TMP e BMX em formulações farmacêuticas.

Development and validation of an UV-Vis spectrophotometric method for the quantification of oclacitinib in capsule formulation

Objective. The aim of this study was the development and validation of an UV-Vis spectrophotometric method for the quantification of oclacitinib in commercial capsule formulation since pharmacopeias have not yet provided an official monograph for this drug. Methods. The parameters linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, specificity, precision, accuracy, and robustness were determined according to Brazilian and international guidelines. Results. Linearity was determined for the analytical range of 5-15 µg/mL, and a limit of detection of 1.18 µg/mL and limit of quantification of 3.58 µg/mL were obtained. The method was selective and the precision was demonstrated through repeatability and intermediate precision, with relative standard deviations of 1.96% and 1.78%, respectively. In its turn, accuracy presented recovery percentages of 98.32-100.91%. All robustness and sample stability (48 h at 25 °C) results revealed no statistical variation among the groups. Conclusions. The presented method is suitable for the quantification of oclacitinib in commercial capsule formulation.

Contenido de humedad, proteínas y minerales en diez variedades de quínoa chilena cultivadas en distintas zonas geográficas / Moisture, protein and mineral content of ten varieties of Chilean quinoa grown in different geographic zones

RESUMEN El consumo de quínoa (Chenopodium quínoa Willd) ha aumentado, renovando el interés en su composición y valor nutricional. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar los contenidos de humedad, cenizas, proteínas y algunos minerales (Fe, Zn y Cu) de 10 variedades de quínoa chilena cultivadas en cuatro zonas geográficas, utilizando metodologías analíticas validadas. Las muestras (n=10) de quínoa cultivada en Vallenar, Los Tilos, Hidango y Santa Rosa fueron analizadas en triplicado. Los métodos normalizados aplicados fueron: humedad; cenizas; proteínas; hierro, zinc y cobre, bajo los requisitos de ISO/IEC 17025:2017. Los datos se analizaron usando análisis de varianza para comparar variedades y zonas de cultivo. Las muestras contienen en promedio 16,6 g de proteínas/100 g (14,4-17,5), 8,97 mg de hierro/100 g (7,71-10,76), 3,38 mg de zinc/100 g (2,17-5,30), y 0,83 mg de cobre/100 g (0,60-1,10). Las variedades cultivadas en Vallenar, Los Tilos e Hidango mostraron mayor contenido proteico que las de Santa Rosa (p<0,05). Todas las variedades tienen un contenido destacado de los microminerales cobre, zinc y hierro. Los resultados aportan información relevante sobre el valor nutricional de la quínoa chilena, entregando datos para la actualización de las Tablas de Composición Química de alimentos.

ABSTRACT The intake of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) has increased worldwide. Its revival has renewed interest in its composition and nutritional value. The aim of this study was to determine the contents of moisture, ash, protein, and some minerals (Fe, Zn and Cu) of ten varieties of Chilean quinoa grown in various geographical zones, using validated analytical methods under rule ISO/IEC 17025:2017. Grains grown in Vallenar, Los Tilos, Hidango, and Santa Rosa were analyzed in triplicates, using previously validated analytical methodologies and certified reference materials. The normalized methods used were: moisture; ash; protein; mineral, under the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 norm. Data were analyzed using ANOVA to compare varieties and growth zones. The analyzed quinoa grains contain a mean of 16.6 g proteins/100 g (range 14.4-17.5), 8.97 mg iron/100 g (range 7.71-10.76), 3.38 mg zinc/100 g, and 0.83 mg copper/100 g (range 0.60-1.10). The varieties grown in Vallenar, Los Tilos and Hidango showed higher protein content compared to Santa Rosa (p<0.05). All varieties exhibit considerable microminerals content, such as copper, zinc, and iron. These results provide relevant information about the nutritional value of Chilean quinoa and updated reliable data for Food Composition Tables.

Validación del ensayo FVIII: C cromogénico en una plataforma automatizada

El objetivo de este trabajo fue realizar la validación analítica del método cromogénico (FVIII:Ccro) en la plataforma ACL TOP y correlacionarlo con el método coagulable en una etapa (FVIII:Ccoag). El estudio de validación (EP5-A2, EP6-A2 y comparación de métodos por EP-9) se realizó para la curva de rango normal-bajo (CRNB): aproximadamente entre 10-150 UI/dL de FVIII y de rango muy bajo (CRMB): aproximadamente entre 0-10 UI/dL. Los resultados de repetitividad (CVr) y precisión intermedia (CVi) fueron menores del 6% y comparables a los informados por el fabricante para otras plataformas. El rango de medición analítica fue de 11-129 UI/dL con CRNB, y se extrapoló a 0,3 UI/dL al utilizar la CRMB. Para la CRNB FVIII:Ccro mostró buena correlación con FVIII:Ccoag: r: 0,98, pendiente: 0,982 (0,961-1,003), ordenada al origen: -0,3 (-1,1-0,5), sesgo: -2,0%. Para CRMB se obtuvo un r de 0,96, pendiente: 0,921 (0,855-0,988), ordenada al origen: -0,07 (-0,35-0,20), sesgo: -10,2%. Sólo 4 pacientes presentaron niveles discrepantes entre ambos métodos. La determinación de FVIII:C por el método cromogénico automatizado en la familia ACL TOP fue comparable con FVIII coagulable en una etapa en el rango analítico evaluado. El FVIII:Ccro automatizado puede utilizarse para el diagnóstico y seguimiento del tratamiento de los pacientes hemofílicos.

The objective of this work was to perform the analytical validation of the chromogenic method (FVIII:Ccro) on the ACL TOP platform correlating with one stage assay (FVIII:Ccoag). The validation study (EP5-A2, EP6-A2 and comparison of methods by EP-9) was performed for the low-normal range curve (CRNB): approximately between 10-150 IU/dL of FVIII and very low range (CRMB): approximately between 0-10 IU/dL. The results of CVr (repeatability) and CVi (intermediate precision) were lower than 6% and comparable to those reported by the manufacturer for other platforms. The analytical measurement range was 11-129 IU/dL, extrapolated to 0.3 IU/dL using the CRMB. For CRNB FVIII:Ccro showed good correlation with FVIII:Ccoag: r: 0.98, slope: 0.982 (0.961-1.003), intercept: -0.3 (-1.1-0.5), bias: -2.0%. For CRMB: r: 0.96 was obtained, pending: 0.921 (0.855-0.988), intercept: -0.07 (-0.35-0.20), bias: -10.2%. Only 4 patients presented discrepant levels between both methods. The automated chromogenic FVIII assay in the ACL TOP family is comparable with one stage coagulable FVIII in the analytical range studied. The FVIII:Ccro automated can be used for the diagnosis and monitoring of the treatment of hemophilic patients.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi a validação analítica do método cromogênico (FVIII:Ccro) na plataforma ACL TOP correlacionando-se com o método coagulável numa etapa (FVIII:Ccoag). O estudo de validação (EP5-A2, EP6-A2 e comparação de métodos por EP-9) foi realizado para a curva de faixa normal-baixa (CRNB) aproximadamente entre 10 e 150 Ul/dL de FVIII e de faixa muito baixa (CRMB): aproximadamente entre 0 e 10 UI/dL. Os resultados de Repetitividade (CVr) e precisão intermediária (CVi) foram inferiores a 6% e comparáveis aos descritos pelo fabricante para outras plataformas. A faixa de medição analítica foi de 11-129 UI/dL com CRNB extrapolando-se para 0,3 UI/dL utilizando a CRMB. Para a CRNB FVIII:Ccro houve boa correlação com o FVIII: Ccoag: r: 0,98, inclinação: 0,982 (0,961-1,003), ordenada na origem: -0,3 (-1,1-0,5), Viés: -2,0%. Para CRMB: foi obtido um r: 0,96, pendente: 0,921 (0,855-0,988), ordenado na origem: -0,07 (-0,35-0,20), Viés: -10,2%. Apenas quatro pacientes apresentaram níveis discrepantes entre os dois métodos. A determinação de FVIII:C pelo método cromogênico automatizado na família ACL TOP foi comparável ao FVIII coagulável em um estágio na faixa analítica avaliada. FVIII: O FVIII:Ccro automatizado pode ser utilizado para o diagnóstico e seguimento do tratamento dos pacientes hemofílicos.

Validation of a method for simultaneous analysis of cocaine, benzoylecognine and cocaethylene in urine using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

Abstract The present study describes a method for simultaneous analysis of cocaine, benzoylecgonine and cocaethylene in urine samples. After solid phase extraction, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry was used for identification and quantification. The calibration curves were linear at 20 - 3000 ng/mL, r2 0.9997 for benzoylecgonine, 15 - 2000 ng/mL, r2 0.9985 and r2 0.9993 for cocaine and cocaethylene, respectively. Accuracy values: cocaine: 93,5 - 102,1%; benzoylecgonine: 97,5 - 104,8%; cocaethylene: 90,6 - 101,5%. Precision values: cocaine: C.V 5,4 - 14,6%; benzoylecgonine: C.V 7,8 - 12,3%; cocaethylene: C.V 5,9 - 12,3%. Detection and quantification limit values: cocaine and cocaethylene:10 ng/mL and 15 ng/mL, respectivalty; benzoylecgonine:15 ng/mL and 20 ng/mL, respectivaley. Recovery values: cocaine: 78,0 - 85,8%; benzoylecgonine: 74,0 - 79,8%; cocaethylene: 83,0 - 91,5%. The method described is advantageous compared to others, as it simultaneously detects the major analytes found in urine samples due to cocaine use and has been successfully validated.

Simultaneous liquid chromatography- tandem mass spectrometry method to quantify epicatechin and procyanidin B2 in rat plasma after oral administration of Trichilia catigua (catuaba) extract and its application to a pharmacokinetic study

Abstract Trichilia catigua A. Juss., Meliaceae, known as catuaba in Brazil, is traditionally used for the treatment of stress, sexual impotence and memory deficits. To our knowledge, there is no analytical method described in literature for simultaneous quantification of catuaba extract marker substances in biological matrices. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a bioanalytical method by LC-MS/MS to quantify epicatechin and procyanidin B2 in rat plasma after administration of standardized extract of T. catigua. Chromatographic separation was achieved with a C18 column, methanol and 0.1% aqueous formic acid at a flow rate of 0.25 ml/min. Detection was performed using electrospray ionization in negative mode. The lower limits of quantification were 5 ng/ml and 12.5 ng/ml for procyanidin B2 and epicatechin, respectively. Intra- and inter-day assays variability were less than 15%. The extraction recovery was 104% for epicatechin and 74% for procyanidin B2 using one-step liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate. Epicatechin and PB2 were detected in plasma up to 300 min after oral administration of 400 mg/kg of standardized extract of T. catigua in rats. This rapid and sensitive method for the analysis of the epicatechin and procyanidin B2 in rat plasma can be applied to pharmacokinetic studies.

Avaliação toxicológica da exposição à Cannabis e cocaína na gravidez em cordão umbilical humano: validação de método analítico e prospecção de biomarcadores proteicos de toxicidade / Toxicological assessment of Cannabis and cocaine exposure during pregnancy in human umbilical cord tissue: analytical method validation and prospection of protein biomarkers related to fetotoxicity

O abuso de drogas atinge aproximadamente 35 milhões de pessoas em todo planeta, sendo um problema alarmante em decorrência de graves danos à saúde, como a dependência química e intoxicações fatais. No Brasil, o número de usuários tem crescido principalmente para o consumo de produtos da Cannabis e cocaína, drogas amplamente consumidas, inclusive entre mulheres em período gestacional, trazendo à tona um novo grupo de risco. A exposição gestacional a drogas de abuso está diretamente relacionada a malformações fetais e complicações de saúde para mãe e bebê nos períodos pré- e pós-natal. Tradicionalmente, a avaliação toxicológica da exposição é realizada pela detecção da droga parental e de seus produtos de biotransformação em matrizes materno-fetais por meio de métodos bioanalíticos. Entretanto, estes ensaios não fornecem informações acerca dos impactos fisiológicos ocasionados pela exposição, deixando uma lacuna no que tange às informações sobre os mecanismos e moléculas subjacentes envolvidos em processos de toxicidade. Desse modo, o desenvolvimento de análises toxicológicas mais robustas utilizando tecnologia de ponta, que possam comprovar o uso drogas e também elucidar aspectos de toxicidade é de suma importância, pois auxiliam na compreensão do impacto biológico relativo à exposição humana a xenobióticos. Neste trabalho foram desenvolvidos ensaios bioanalíticos, utilizando o tecido do cordão umbilical para a avaliação da exposição in utero à canabinoides. Foi desenvolvido e validado método QuECheRS adaptado como preparo de amostra, no qual etapas simultâneas de extração e hidrólise alcalina de canabinoides são alcançadas, utilizando cromatografia em fase gasosa acoplada a espectrômetro de massas para detecção de delta-9-tetraidrocanabinol (THC), canabinol (CBN), 11-hidroxi-delta-9-tetraidrocanabinol (11-OHTHC) e 11-nor-9-carboxi-tetrahidrocanabinol (THC-COOH). Também foram desenvolvidas metodologias utilizando LC-MS/MS e Trapped Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry para análise de proteoma de cordão umbilical humano em diferentes regiões, no intuito de identificar biomarcadores proteicos relativos à fetotoxicidade do uso de drogas na gravidez. Até o presente momento, QuECheRS é utilizado pela primeira vez como abordagem bioanalítica para avaliação de drogas ilícitas em matrizes teciduais materno-fetais e mostrou-se satisfatório para detecção de produtos da Cannabis. Nos ensaios proteômicos, foram identificados potenciais biomarcadores de fetotoxicidade, como as moléculas ACTA 2, Collagen alpha-1 (XVIII), SMC1A, KNL1, KMT2A, em tecidos expostos à Cannabis e/ou cocaína. Tais macromoléculas estão correlacionadas a malformações embriogênicas e complicações de saúde na vida intra-uterina. As metodologias desenvolvidas neste trabalho podem ser úteis para uma melhor avaliação da toxicidade do uso de drogas na gravidez, fornecendo novas pistas sobre a exposição e/ou efeitos tóxicos significativos considerados na avaliação de risco

Drug abuse affects approximately 35 million people worldwide and can be considered a significant burden on society due to severe health problems, e.g. drug addiction and fatal poisonings. In Brazil, the number of users has been growing related to Cannabis and cocaine products, drugs widely used, including among women in gestational period, bringing up a new risk group. Gestational exposure to drugs of abuse is directly related to fetal malformations and health complications for mother and babies in the pre- and postnatal periods. Traditionally, toxicological assessment of exposure is performed by detecting the parent drug and its biotransformation products in maternal-fetal matrices using bioanalytical methods. However, these assays do not provide information about the physiological impacts caused by exposure, leaving a lack of information about the pathways and molecules involved in toxicity processes. Thus, the development of robust toxicological analyzes using cutting-edge technologies in order to prove drug use and also elucidate aspects of toxicity is very important, as they help in understanding the biological impact of human exposure to xenobiotics. Herein, bioanalytical methods using umbilical cord tissue to assess in utero exposure to cannabinoids were developed. A QuECheRS method was developed fully validated as a sample preparation technique for simultaneous extraction and alkaline hydrolysis of cannabinoids, using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to detect the analytes delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN), 11-hydroxydelta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH). LC-MS/MS based proteomics and Trapped Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry were also developed in order to identify protein biomarkers related to fetotoxicity of drug use in pregnancy. Our works represents the first use of QuECheRS for evaluation of illicit drugs in maternal-fetal tissue and was suitable for detection of Cannabis products. In the proteomic assays, potential biomarkers of fetotoxicity were identified in the exposed tissues, such as ACTA 2, Collagen alpha-1 (XVIII), SMC1A, KNL1, KMT2A. These proteins are related to embryogenic malformations and health complications in intrauterine life. The methodologies developed in this project may be useful for a better assessment of the toxicity of drug use in pregnancy, providing new clues about exposure and/or significant toxic effects that should be considered in the risk assessment

Simultaneous determination of epicatechin and procyanidin A2 markers in Litchi chinensis leaves by high-performance liquid chromatography

ABSTRACT The fruits of Litchi chinensis Sonn., Sapindaceae, are renowned for their biological activities. However, their leaves are poorly explored, although they represent an important source of vegetable raw material with biological properties as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive. An HPLC method was developed and validated for the simultaneous quantification of epicatechin and procyanidin A2 in the leaf hydroethanolic extract of L. chinensis. The markers and other unidentified components were separated on a Luna Phenomenex C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) with mobile phase composed of acetonitrile: water pH 3.0 (with sulfuric acid), in a gradient run; at 1.0 ml min-1, 30 ºC and 278 nm for detection. The method was linear over an epicatechin and procyanidin A2 concentration range of 10–100 µg ml-1. The Limit of Quantification for epicatechin and procyanidin A2 were 1.7 and 2 µg ml-1, respectively. The Relative Standard Deviation (%) values for markers (intra- and inter-day precision studies) were <4.0% and the accuracy was 100 ± 5%. The method was applied to ten samples collected in the state of Santa Catarina (Brazil), which showed 14.8–44.5 and 44.8–69.6 mg g-1 of epicatechin and procyanidin A2, respectively. The proposed method could be a valuable tool for quality assessment of L. chinenis leaves as well as their herbal derivatives.

Isolamento químico e validação analítica por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência de quercitrina em Solidago chilensis Meyen (Asteraceae) / Chemical isolation and analytical validation by high-performance liquid chromatography of quercitrin in Solidago chilensis Meyen (Asteraceae)

RESUMO A espécie Solidago chilensis Meyen, Asteraceae é conhecida como erva-lanceta ou arnica-brasileira, sendo utilizada popularmente como antimicrobiana e para o tratamento de inflamações tópicas. No entanto, estudos fitoquímicos e farmacológicos para as partes aéreas são escassos. Neste trabalho, realizou-se a determinação de flavonoides por espectrofotometria de UV/Vis, prospecção fitoquímica da fração acetato de etila visando o isolamento do constituinte químico majoritário e validação analítica por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). O teor de flavonoides totais foi de 5,42%, representados como hiperosídeo. O fracionamento químico utilizando métodos cromatográficos (cromatografia líquida em coluna gel de sílica; CHCl3:EtOH; 8:2 v/v) e espectroscópicos (1H RMN,13C RMN e ESI-MS) revelou o isolamento de quercetina-3-O-α-L-ramnosídeo(quercitrina). A sensibilidade e a linearidade (r = 0,999) da validação analítica, utilizando a quercitrina isolada do extrato hidroalcoólico da planta, revelaram um rendimento de 5,29% do analito em relação à droga vegetal. Precisão, recuperação e robustez, além dos valores estabelecidos para os limites de detecção (LOD) e de quantificação (LOQ), poderão ser utilizados como parâmetros de qualidade para extratos à base de S. chilensis.

ABSTRACT The species Solidago chilensis Meyen Asteraceae, known as “erva-lanceta” or “Brazilian arnica”, is popularly used as an antimicrobial and topical treatment for inflammations. However, phytochemical and pharmacological studies of its aerial parts are scarce. In this study, flavonoids were determined by UV/Vis spectrophotometry and phytochemical screening of the ethyl acetate fraction with the goal of isolating the major chemical constituent and analytically validating it through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The total flavonoid content was 5.42%, represented as hyperoside. Chemical fractionation using chromatographic (liquid chromatography in column of silica gel, CHCl3:EtOH, 8:2 v/v) and spectroscopic methods (1H RMN, 13C RMN, and ESI-MS) revealed the isolation of quercetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside (quercitrin). The sensitivity and linearity (r = 0.999) using the isolated quercitrin of the hydroalcoholic extract of the plant revealed a yield of 5.29% of analyte in relation to the plant. Precision, recovery, and robustness, as well as values set for the limits of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ) can be used as quality parameters for extracts based on S. chilensis.

Development and validation of analytical methodology with focus on the qualification of powder mixers / Misturadores de pós/validação analítica; Espectrofotometria; Óxido férrico/quantificação; Lactose monoidratada/análise quantitativa

This study aims at developing an analytical procedure capable of quantifying the ferric oxide present in the mixture of ferric oxide/lactose monohydrate (0.4% w/w). The analytical procedure was checked for specificity, linearity, precision (system repeatability, procedure repeatability and intermediate precision), accuracy, stability of solutions and robustness of the procedure. The concentration of Fe (III) was determined by spectrophotometry at 480 nm based on calibration curves. The specificity was verified. The linearity was obtained in the range of 11.2 to 16.8 µg of ferric oxide/mL. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of the system repeatability, procedure repeatability and intermediate precision, were not more than 2%. The RSD of the accuracy values were less than 0.75%. The stability of the samples was checked over a 24 hours assay. In the robustness evaluation, the wavelength and the concentration of hydrochloric acid varied. The maximum absorbance deviation due to wavelength variation was 0.14 percent, and the maximum deviation due to the hydrochloric acid concentration variation was 2.4%, indicating that the concentration of hydrochloric acid is critical to the analysis of ferric oxide. The procedure developed was validated and is suitable to the performance qualification of powder mixers..

O objetivo deste trabalho foi desenvolver um método analítico capaz de quantificar o óxido férrico presente na mistura óxido férrico/lactose monoidratada (0,4% w/w). Verificou-se a especificidade, linearidade, precisão (repetibilidade do sistema, repetibilidade do método e precisão intermediária), exatidão, estabilidade das soluções e robustez. A concentração de Fe(III) foi determinada por espectrofotometria em 480 nm com base em curvas de calibração. Verificou-se a especificidade verificada. A linearidade foi obtida na faixa de 11,2 a 16,8 µg de óxido férrico/mL. O desvio padrão relativo (DPR) da repetibilidade do sistema, método e precisão intermediária foram inferiores a 2%. Os valores de DPR da exatidão foram inferiores a 0,75%. A estabilidade das amostras foi verificada ao longo de 24 horas de ensaio. Na avaliação da robustez variou-se o comprimento de onda e a concentração de ácido clorídrico. O desvio máximo de absorbância ao se variar o comprimento de onda foi de 0,14%, enquanto que para a concentração de ácido clorídrico o desvio foi de 2,4% para a concentração de 0,8 M. Assim, a concentração de ácido clorídrico é crítica para a análise de óxido férrico. O método desenvolvido foi validado e é adequado à qualificação do desempenho de misturadores de pós e granulados...

Development and Validation of First Derivative Spectrophotometric Method for Quantification of Darunavir in Tablets.

Aims: Darunavir is widely used in HIV/AIDS therapy. It is a HIV protease inhibitor that has excellent efficacy against the virus. The aim of this study is to develop and validate an analytical method fast and free of interferences for determination of darunavir ethanolate as raw material and tablet dosage form. Methodology: As the formulation excipients show high interference in darunavir determination by a direct UV absorption measurement a derivative spectrophotometry was applied. A selective, easy and fast method was achieved employing simple and cheap instrumentation by using first-order derivative spectrophotometry. Results: The first-derivation of spectrum of the drug measured between 200 and 400 nm allowed identification of the analyte and showed absence of placebo interference. The assay was based on the absorbance at 276nm. The linear concentration range was established from 11 to 21 μg/mL. The intra-day and inter-day precision expressed as RSD was 0.06% and 3.75% respectively with mean recovery of 99.84%. Conclusion: The proposed analytical method is able to quantify darunavir as raw material and tablets and can be used routinely by any laboratory applying a spectrophotometer with a derivative accessory. The great difference of the method proposed here is that it proves to be free of placebo interferences as well as simple, fast and low cost.

Validación post-analítica de la correlación inmunoglobulinas-gammaglobulinas / Post-analytical validation of the correlation between immunoglobulins-gammaglobulins

La electroforesis convencional en gel de agarosa con registro densitométrico (PRE) y la cuantificación de inmunoglobulinas IgG, IgA e IgM (GAM) por inmunoturbidimetría permiten estimar el estado inmunológico humoral. Debido a las diferencias metodológicas, los resultados de GAM y la densitometría de la fracción gamma obtenida ( GAMMA OBT) del PRE, son difíciles de correlacionar. El objetivo del presente estudio fue establecer una forma de validación post-analítica entre ambos métodos. Se seleccionaron 1.057 sueros, 736 no presentaban componentes monoclonales en la electroforesis. Se determinó GAM en un autoanalizador Hitachi 917 (Tina-quant-Roche, EE.UU.). La GAMMA OBT se obtuvo por electroforesis mediante un sistema semiautomático (Hydragel-Protein) seguido de densitometría (Hyrys), SEBIA (París-Francia). Mediante regresión lineal múltiple sobre GAMMA OBT y GAM de los 736 sueros, se predijo el valor esperado de la fracción gamma (GAMMA ESP) en g/dL a partir de los resultados de GAM: GAMMA ESP=0,84xIgG+0,23xIgA+0,75xIgM (Error estándar: 0,009; 0,041; 0,050, respectivamente; r=0,955; p<0,0001). Para detectar anomalías, como la presencia de componentes monoclonales, se utilizaron los 1.057 sueros, obteniéndose para la diferencia entre la GAMMA ESP y la GAMMA OBT, los siguientes valores de corte: -0,21 y +0,18 g/dL, los cuales incluyen la región de menor incidencia de anomalías. Se determinó el cociente de cada inmunoglobulina respecto de su valor normal superior, estableciéndose 1,5 como valor de corte. Combinando ambos procedimientos se obtuvo una sensibilidad y especificidad global de 81,4%, y 76,6%, respectivamente, para la detección de anomalías. En el presente trabajo se expone el algoritmo de decisiones que luego se ha aplicado a otros 307 pacientes encontrándose 68,0% y 83,1% de sensibilidad y especificidad, respectivamente.

Conventional agarose gel electrophoresis (AE) followed by densitometric analysis and quantitation of immunoglobulins IgG, IgA, and IgM (GAM) enable the evaluation of the immunological humoral status. Due to methodological differences, the results of the immunoglobulins quantitation by immunoturbidimetry (GAM), and the ones of the GAMMAAE region by densitometer tracing, are difficult to correlate. The aim of the present study was to establish a method of post-analytical validation between both procedures. One thousand and fifty-seven sera were selected, out of which 736 did not show any monoclonal components in the AE. GAM concentration was determined with a 917 Hitachi autoanalizer (Tina-quant-Roche). The GAMMA region was obtained by AE with a semiautomatic system (Hydragel Protein), followed by densitometer tracing (Hyrys, SEBIA). By means of the least-square multiple linear regression analysis of the GAMMA and GAM determinations of the 736 sera, the percentage fractions of each immunoglobulin corresponding to the GAMMA region were obtained: GAMMAGAM=0,84xIgG+0,23xIgA+0,75xIgM; (r=0.955; p<0.0001). In order to detect abnormalities such as the presence of monoclonal components, the 1057 sera were tested. The cut-off values for the normal difference between the GAMMAGAM and the GAMMAAEAE, were the following: -0.21;+0.18 (g/dL). The ratio of each immunoglobulin with respect to its higher normal value was determined, and the resulting cut-off value was 1.5. For the detection of abnormalities, a global sensitivity and specificity of 81.4%, and 76.6%, respectively was obtained by combining both procedures. In the present study the algorithm of decisions applied is shown.