Aspects of Matrix Effects in Applications of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry to Catecholamine Analysis-A Review

Background: Recently, liquid chromatography based on tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/ MS) has become an efficient tool in analyzes of many compounds in various biological matrices. However, as known by researchers, these biological matrices cause various interferences by suppressing (ion suppression) or increasing ionization (ion enhancement). Since this challenge was recognized in the 1990s, many studies have been published on it, and its causes have been reviewed countless times for various compounds. However, none of the current studies specifically addressed aspects of matrix effects that have to do with catecholamines. Discussion: This review will focus on these issues, critically discussing experiments and results of matrix effects in LC-MS/MS applications on catecholamine analysis in various biological matrices. Moreover, it can guide the performance of studies on matrix effects in LC-MS/MS procedures in bioanalytical systems. Conclusion: This article is useful for academics such as analytical chemists, pharmacologists and also members of the pharmaceutical industry working on catecholamines and liquid chromatographymass spectrometry.