Quantitative Analysis of Microcystin Cyclopeptides in Natural Water Using Ultra-Fast Triple Quadrupole LCMS-8050

Poster Presentation

Prepared by W. Lipps1, D. Schordock2, R. Lieberman1, T. Russell1, J. Post1
1 - Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, 7100 Riverwood Drive, Columbia, MD, 21046, United States
2 - North East Ohio Regional Sewer District, 4747 E 49th St, Cleveland, OH, 44125, United States


Contact Information: [email protected]; 410-910-0802


ABSTRACT

Cyanobacteria found in eutrophic or hypereutrophic freshwater may accumulate in surface water supplies as “blooms” or “scums”. Some species of cyanobacteria produce toxins, one of which are hepatoxins called microcystins. At least 50 various types of microcystins are known, and several of these may be produced during a bloom. The chemical structure of microcystins includes two variable amino acids and an unusual aromatic amino acid, ADDA (3-amino-9-methoxy-2,6,8-trimethyl-10-phenylideca-4,6-diienoic acid). Different microcystins have different lipophilicities and polarities, which could affect their toxicity. The World Health Organization has set the guideline for a permissible amount of the microcystin LR in drinking water at 1 µg/mL. The National Center for Environmental Assessment suggests a limit of 0.1 µg/L. Accurate, sensitive characterization and quantitation of seven different microcystin cyclopeptides is demonstrated. In this anaylsis, microcystins-RR, YR, LR, LA, LY. LW and LF were measured using ultra high pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) with an LCMS-8050 triple quadrupole mass spectrometry detector.