Determination of sucrose in equine serum using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS)

Mucosal integrity may be objectively assessed by determination of the absorption of exogenous substances such as sucrose. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) have been reported for the accurate quantification of low concentrations of sucrose in serum. LC/MS offered the advantage of high sensitivity and mass selectivity without the need for extensive sample derivatization required for GC/MS methods. However, the high polarity and non-volatile nature of the sucrose molecule renders LC/MS techniques challenging. Previously published reports lacked sufficient detail to permit replication of methodology. Problems encountered with existing protocols included poor peak resolution and weak fragmentation of the parent molecule. This communication describes a LC/MS protocol developed to provide improved resolution and product detection.