| Microfluidics is the most modern version of electrophoresis to be introduced into the analytical chemistry field. In this format, electrophoresis is performed in trough-like channels in a planar format. When combined with laser induced fluorescence detection, this remarkable technique has the potential to separate a simple mixture with high efficiency in a matter of seconds with better sensitivity than conventional methods.;The research herein focuses on the development of microfluidic electrophoresis methods for the separation and identification of amino acids in consumable fish products. Preliminary studies utilized amino acid standards and yielded baseline resolution of mixtures of amino acid 1, 2 and 3 within 30 seconds at efficiencies of >1 x 106 plates per meter. In subsequent studies, free amino acids were analyzed in various species of fish obtained from commercial sources and local lakes. Finally, fish samples known to be contaminated with PCBs were also analyzed. |
