Introduction of Microextraction by Packed Sorbent and a Review of its Applications in Toxicology and Human Biological Monitoring: A Short Review

Abstract

Sample preparation is a crucial step in the separation and determination of desired components from complex matrices. It significantly influences the reliability and accuracy of the analysis as well as the quality of the data. This process is often the most labor-intensive and error-prone aspect of analytical methodology, which can impact the quantification of target analytes. Recent trends in sample preparation include miniaturization, automation, high-throughput performance, online coupling with analytical instruments, and low-cost operation using little or no solvent consumption. Over the past decade, microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS) has emerged as a simple, rapid, and online sample preparation technique. The automation offered by MEPS is a notable advantage, along with the significantly smaller volumes of samples, solvents, and dead volumes within the system. Additional benefits include the speed and simplicity of the sample preparation process. This review provides an overview of the MEPS technique, covering its fields of application in toxicology, common formats, and sorbents, as well as its major advantages, limitations, and future trends. © 2025, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.