Application of an integrative system (2D PLExHPLC-PDA) for bioactive compound extraction and online quantification: Advantages, validation, and considerations

Analyzing compounds such as polyphenols in solid samples frequently uses a solid-liquid extraction step. The solid-liquid extraction and analysis integration in a single equipment is not commercially available since several challenges are inherent to this hybridization. In the context of developing more sustainable analytical proced-ures, innovative techniques are demanded. Given that, this work proposes a new integrative system (2D PLE x HPLC-PDA) and presents its validation for bioactive compound extraction and online quantification, discussing the main advantages and cares that need to be taken. Two food byproducts - passion fruit bagasse and coffee husks - were chosen as solid model samples. The system was configured to perform pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) with periodical automated extract injection in the HPLC, consequently obtaining the online quantification of target compounds from the solid samples. In parallel with the online injections, extract fractions were collected and submitted to offline analysis in which the extraction yield of piceatannol and chlorogenic acid and caffeine were evaluated, respectively, for passion fruit bagasse and coffee husks. The extraction yields obtained by online and offline injections were compared and were significantly equal (p > 0.05). Thus, the 2D PLE x HPLC-PDA system represents a feasible tool to integrate solid sample preparation and chemical analysis of biocompounds in a single and online step.

Automated summary

This study proposes a new integrative system (2D PLE x HPLC-PDA) for the extraction and online quantification of bioactive compounds in solid samples. The system combines pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) with automated extract injection in HPLC, allowing for a single and online step for sample preparation and chemical analysis.