Chloramphenicol CAP sensors

We have developed an LC-based sensor which relies upon the displacement of a drug-dye conjugate from a CAP-imprinted polymer upon application of samples containing the original template molecule (Fig. 20.15). This is essentially a competitive binding assay in a flow injection format. The increased number of theoretical plates available during the separation serves to greatly enhance the selectivity of the assay. 

CAP is a useful broad spectrum antibiotic used in both human and veterinary medicine, but it is capable of producing toxic effects at high concentrations and, consequently, its use in food-producing animals has been banned. Thus the monitoring of drug levels in patients blood and in foodstuffs is of great importance. 

Bulk imprinted polymers [38] Various combinations of porogens, functional monomers (MAA and DEAEMA) and functional monomer/template ratios were compared and the most selective MIP was that obtained using a mixture of DEAEMA, CAP (functional monomer template ratio 2 1) and EDM A in THF. The mixture was polymerised, washed and particles sized to 25-63 m in diameter were packed into HPLC columns. 

The columns were then equilibrated with MeCN, whereupon CAP and various derivatives (Fig. 20.16) were injected for analysis. At flow rates from 2 to 5 mL/min 

CAP-imprinted polymer crushed, extracted and packed into HPLC columns 

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