Sample preparation strategies for bioinorganic analysis by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

In this review the recent strategies of sample preparation are described and discussed for biomolecules separation/extraction for further metal(oid) or metal(oid)-containing compounds determination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Taking into account that ICP-MS can be considered a powerful analytical tool for the determination of metals and metaloids in animal and plant tissues, fluids and related samples, applications reported in the last fifteen years are described. This technique has been widely used in analytical procedures once it presents suitable sensitivity for trace analysis and could be coupled with several kinds of separation techniques such as liquid and gas chromatography, capillary and gel electrophoresis, among others. In this context, sample preparation is a crucial step in order to assure accurate results and non conventional sources of energy for sample preparation has been used, especially those related to ultrasound and microwaves. Thus, this review summarizes the sample preparation procedures regarding metal and metal-containing compound by ICP-MS, such as extraction and solubilization procedures, derivatization, pre-concentration, cleanup and also digestion for total metal analysis.

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► The main procedures for sample treatment in bioinorganic analysis are presented.
► Conventional and non conventional procedures for sample treatment are discussed.
► Metal(oid) or metal(oid)-containing compounds determination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) are described.