Solid-Phase Extraction and Determination of Metoclopramide in Biological Fluids and Human Urine by Molecularly Imprinted Polymers

Introduction: The imprinting technique involves the formation of a complex between a template molecule and the functional monomers in an appropriate solvent. The procedure for synthesizing an MIP is based on the chemical polymerization of a functional monomer and a cross-linking agent in the presence of a molecule used as a template. Removal of the template yields a functional polymeric matrix with recognition sites complementary in functionality and shape to the print molecule structure. These MIPs have been employed in fields where a certain degree of selectivity is required. Aim: Simple and inexpensive extraction and detection of Metoclopramide (MCP) from biologic samples Materials and Methods: After polymerization of SPE procedure, successful imprinting was confirmed by comparison of the recoveries between NIP and MIP particles. Molecular recognition properties, binding capability and selectivity of the MIPs were evaluated. UV spectroscopic determination of MCP was done at 309 nm and accuracy and precision was checked by the liquid chromatographic technique. Results: Polymer imprinted for MCP has been synthesized via a non-covalent molecular imprinting approach. The MIP has then been applied in a SPE procedure, which enables the selective extraction of MCP from biological samples, even when MCP is present at low concentrations. It was shown that recoveries of nearly 99% of a MCP standard solution and up to approximately 91% from spiked human urine and serum samples could be obtained after SPE. The binding capacity of the MIP for MCP was determined to be 113 mg g-1 (319 �mol/ g). The MISPE can be successfully applied to clean-up and preconcentration of MCP. Conclusion: Water-compatible molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) designed to enable the selective extraction of metoclopramide (MCP) from complex matrices such as biological fluids and human urine have been synthesized.