Recent advances in coupling solid-phase extraction and capillary electrophoresis (SPE–CE)

Solid-phase extraction (SPE) is a good strategy for overcoming the low sensitivity of capillary electrophoresis (CE). Here, we present a critical review of applications of coupling between SPE and CE reported between 2000 and March 2007. We highlight selected developments and advances and focus on various combinations of these two techniques, which include at-line, in-line and on-line modes of SPE–CE. We discuss the advantages and the drawbacks of the different set-ups and methodologies. We also outline novel trends in SPE–CE coupling.