Capillary electrophoresis of catecholamines with laser‐induced fluorescence intensified charge‐coupled device detection

Abstract

Abstract A capillary electrophoresis–laser‐induced fluorescence–intensified charge‐coupled device system was used for the separation and determination of catecholamines. Optimization of derivatization and separation conditions was investigated in order to reach a high separation efficiency and sensitivity. All fluorecein isothiocyanate derivatives of catecholamines were satisfactorily separated within 12 min. The detection limits were in attomole ranges. This method allows determination of catecholamines with high separation efficiencies and sensitivity. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Abbreviations used: CBQCA 3‐(4‐carboxybenzoyl)‐2‐quinoline carboxaldehyde CCD charge‐coupled device DA dopamine, E, epinephrine FITC fluorescein isothiocyanate S‐HT serotoni Lif, laser‐induced fluorescence NE noreginephrine.