Journal of Analytical & Bioanalytical Techniques
Open Access

Multimodal CE; Single-Cell analysis; Biosensing; Separation Technique; Nanoparticle characterization

Introduction

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has revolutionized the field of analytical chemistry by providing a versatile and powerful platform for the separation, identification, and quantification of a wide range of analytes. Since its inception in the 1980s, CE has evolved into a highly sophisticated technique with applications spanning pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental monitoring, forensic science, and more. Its ability to separate ions, small molecules, proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules based on their charge-to-size ratio, affinity, and mobility in an electric field has made it an indispensable tool for researchers and analysts worldwide [1].

CE offers several distinct advantages over traditional chromatographic techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC). Firstly, CE operates with minute sample volumes, typically in the nanoliter to microliter range, making it well-suited for the analysis of limited or precious samples. This attribute also facilitates rapid analysis and minimizes sample consumption, making CE a cost-effective option for routine laboratory testing [2]. Secondly, CE offers exceptional separation efficiency and resolution, often surpassing that of conventional chromatography, due to the absence of a stationary phase and the inherent simplicity of the separation mechanism [3]. This high resolution enables the analysis of complex mixtures with unparalleled precision and sensitivity.

Furthermore, CE is amenable to automation and integration with advanced detection techniques such as mass spectrometry (MS), laserinduced fluorescence (LIF), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, and electrochemical detection (ECD). This compatibility with various detection methods allows for the comprehensive characterization of analytes, including their structure, concentration, and interactions, further expanding the analytical capabilities of CE [4].

In recent years, CE has witnessed significant advancements driven by innovations in instrumentation, microfluidics, and data analysis software. Miniaturization of CE systems, coupled with microfluidic technologies, has led to the development of portable, on-chip CE devices capable of rapid analysis and point-of-care diagnostics [5]. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms into CE workflows holds promise for intelligent method optimization, adaptive control of separation conditions, and real-time data analysis, enhancing the efficiency and robustness of CEbased assays [6].

Discussion

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has established itself as a powerful analytical technique in the field of analytical chemistry. Its ability to separate and analyze a wide range of compounds with high efficiency and resolution makes it invaluable in various applications, including pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, food analysis, and biochemistry. In this discussion, we will explore the principles of capillary electrophoresis, its different modes, and its diverse applications in analytical chemistry [7].

Principles of capillary electrophoresis: Capillary electrophoresis involves the separation of charged analytes based on their electrophoretic mobility in an electric field within a narrow capillary. The separation is driven by the movement of ions under the influence of an applied voltage. The analytes migrate through the capillary at different rates depending on their charge-tosize ratio, allowing for their separation based on this characteristic [8].

Modes of capillary electrophoresis:

Capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE): In CZE, separation is based on the differences in electrophoretic mobility of analytes in a buffer solution within the capillary. Neutral molecules can also be separated based on differences in their interaction with the buffer components or capillary wall.

Capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE): CGE employs a sieving matrix (e.g., polymer solution) within the capillary to separate analytes based on their size. Large molecules experience greater resistance and migrate more slowly through the gel, resulting in separation according to molecular size.

Capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF): CIEF separates analytes based on their isoelectric points (pI). In this technique, a pH gradient is established along the capillary, causing analytes to migrate until they reach their respective pI, where they become focused into sharp bands.

Capillary electrochromatography (CEC): CEC combines electrophoretic and chromatographic separation mechanisms. Analytes partition between a stationary phase coated on the capillary wall and a mobile phase under the influence of an electric field, leading to separation based on both electrophoretic and chromatographic interactions.

Applications of capillary electrophoresis in analytical chemistry:

Pharmaceutical analysis: CE is widely used in pharmaceutical analysis for the separation and quantification of drug compounds, impurities, and degradation products. Its high resolution and efficiency make it ideal for quality control testing, pharmacokinetic studies, and formulation development [9].

Environmental monitoring: CE plays a crucial role in environmental analysis by enabling the separation and quantification of pollutants, pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants in air, water, and soil samples. Its sensitivity and versatility make it suitable for compliance monitoring and environmental risk assessment.

Food and beverage analysis: CE is employed in the analysis of food and beverage products for the detection of additives, preservatives, vitamins, amino acids, and other components. It offers rapid and accurate separation of complex mixtures, contributing to food safety, quality control, and nutritional analysis [10].

Biochemical analysis: In biochemistry, CE is utilized for the separation and characterization of proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and other biomolecules. It enables the analysis of biomolecular interactions, post-translational modifications, and structural elucidation, supporting research in proteomics, genomics, and molecular biology.

Clinical diagnostics: CE is increasingly used in clinical diagnostics for the analysis of biomarkers, metabolites, and drugs in biological fluids such as blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. Its high sensitivity and small sample requirements make it suitable for disease diagnosis, therapeutic drug monitoring, and biomarker discovery.

Conclusion

Capillary electrophoresis has revolutionized analytical chemistry with its versatility, efficiency, and applicability across diverse fields. As technology continues to advance, further innovations in instrumentation, miniaturization, and detection methods are expected to enhance the capabilities and broaden the applications of CE, driving new discoveries and advancements in analytical science.

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