Two-Dimensional LC-MS/MS for Simultaneous Vitamin K1 and K2 Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2 in blood are limited by single detection capabilities, slow speed, long analysis times, high costs, and require large blood samples, making them unsuitable for clinical use, especially for Vitamin K2 due to its low content in the body.

Innovation Solution

A two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method is developed for simultaneous detection of Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2, utilizing a system with specific modules, standardization of solutions, and optimized conditions to achieve fast and sensitive analysis, reducing detection time and cost, and allowing for analysis of small blood samples.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If HPLC or LC-MS/MS is used for detection of Vitamin K1 and K2, then detection sensitivity is improved, but detection time increases and analysis cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoiddetection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the detection process into two distinct dimensions: first-dimensional chromatography separates Vitamin K1 and K2 based on their chemical properties, while the second-dimensional chromatography further resolves them based on different separation mechanisms. This segmented approach enables simultaneous detection of both vitamins in a single run, reducing total detection time while maintaining high sensitivity through the combined power of both chromatographic dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, adding a second separation dimension to the traditional single-dimensional approach. This dimensional expansion allows complex vitamin K compounds to be separated and detected simultaneously with high sensitivity, resolving the contradiction between detection sensitivity and analysis time by providing parallel separation pathways.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If blood sample volume is increased to meet sensitivity requirements for Vitamin K2 detection, then detection sensitivity is improved, but patient discomfort increases and clinical applicability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidpatient discomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a composite detection system combining two-dimensional liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. This composite analytical platform achieves exceptional sensitivity for detecting low-abundance Vitamin K2 in minimal blood samples (20-200 μL), eliminating the need to collect large blood volumes while maintaining high detection sensitivity. The synergistic combination of dual chromatographic separation and mass spectrometric detection creates a powerful tool that protects patients from excessive blood loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of operation

If single detection method is used for Vitamin K1, then operational simplicity is maintained, but detection versatility decreases and analysis time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational simplicityVSAvoiddetection versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent develops a universal two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry platform that can simultaneously detect multiple vitamin K compounds (Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2) in a single analytical run. This multi-functional system maintains operational simplicity through automated dual-dimension separation and unified data processing, while achieving comprehensive detection versatility for various vitamin K forms, eliminating the need for multiple separate detection procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If existing detection methods are used, then detection accuracy is maintained, but detection cost increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous operation of the two-dimensional liquid chromatography system with automated sample injection, separation, and detection cycles. The system maintains uninterrupted analytical throughput by continuously processing samples through both chromatographic dimensions simultaneously, achieving high detection accuracy for Vitamin K1 and K2 while maximizing productivity through sustained operational efficiency and reduced idle time between analyses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The method effectively shortens detection time to 5.5 minutes, enhances sensitivity and specificity, and reduces patient discomfort by using minimal blood samples, making it suitable for clinical use and reducing detection interference.

Implementation Method 1

two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChromatography: Chromatography

Implementation Method 2

two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMass spectrometry:

Implementation Method 3

performing centrifugation after the extraction, collecting a supernatant obtained after the centrifugation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal separation: Centrifugal Separation

Data Source

PatentUS11747349B2Method for simultaneously detecting vitamin K1 and vitamin K2 in traces of blood
Publication Date: 2023.09.05 BEIJING HARMONY HEALTH MEDICAL DIAGNOSTICS CO LTD
  • US11747349B2 patent drawing
  • US11747349B2 patent drawing
  • US11747349B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a method for simultaneously detecting Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2 in traces of blood. The method includes: constructing a two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer, establishing an analytical method, and detecting at least three mixed standard solutions using the constructed two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer to obtain a first detection result; fitting standard curve equations respectively corresponding to Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2; and mixing and centrifuging a blood sample to which an extraction reagent and a certain amount of internal standard substance are added, collecting a supernatant, blowing the supernatant to dry with nitrogen, redissolving the residue, and detecting the dry supernatant using the constructed two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer to obtain a second detection result. In this manner, concentrations of Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2 in the blood sample are obtained.