Lipid analysis by quantitative thin‐layer chromatography

Abstract

Abstract Techniques for the quantitative analysis of lipids using thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) are reviewed. The general procedures are divided into two groups on the basis of whether or not the methods involve the recovery of substances from chromatoplates. Recovery methods are elaborated under detection of spots, recovery of substances and quantification. Methods are described for the recovery of labile compounds from chromatoplates and for the determination of the structures of triglycerides and lecithins. Methods for the direct quantitative analysis of spots on chromatoplates are reviewed. These include measurements of spot size, reflectance, absorbance of transmitted light, and fluorescence. Details of the photodensitometric method, particularly, spot visualization and instrumentation are described. The analysis of lipid classes using a combination of DEAE cellulose chromatography and TLC by the densitomery of charred spots is illustrated.