Fast LC/MS in the analysis of small molecules

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/ MS) has become one of the most widely used analytical techniques in both qualitative and quantitative analysis of small molecules. Recently, with the increasing demand for ever-higher sample throughput, the use of faster chromatographic separations has become popular, along with other LC/ MS methods that decrease analytical cycle-time. The burgeoning use of LC/ MS has meant that the primary expertise of many practitioners today is not in the field of LC/ MS, which has been facilitated by the ease-of-use of modern LC/ MS systems. An examination of the current state of the literature, relating to "fast LC/MS", should serve well to those new to LC/ MS, and should help them in the development of fast LC/ MS methods that are effective in terms of both the chromatography and the utilization of the mass spectrometer. This review paper focuses on fast LC/ MS analyses of small molecules that have been reported in peer-reviewed publications.