Rapid and Efficient Analysis of Microcystins, Nodularin, Cylindrospermopsin, and Anatoxin-a in Drinking Water by LC Tandem MS

Abstract

A fast and sensitive LC-MS method was developed for the simultaneous analysis of 11 cyanotoxins in drinking water. The toxins in this method included eight microcystins, as well as nodularin, anatoxin-a, and cylindrospermopsin. Sample processing involved a small sample volume and a direct dilution procedure that could be performed in minutes rather than hours using traditional SPE procedures. This method also featured a short acquisition time of 12 min with an adequate separation of all analytes. Validation results demonstrated good sensitivity with LODs <100 ng/L and good precision (RSD < 20%) and accuracy. Analyte stability was also thoroughly studied. The matrix effect was minimal, and tap water used for calibrators and controls. No sample carryover was observed after the highest concentration calibrator.