Rapid separation of serum lipids for fatty acid analysis by a single aminopropyl column.

A rapid and simple method for separation of serum lipid classes for fatty acid analysis with a single aminopropyl solid phase glass column is described. The recoveries of cholesteryl esters, triglycerides, free fatty acids, and phospholipids were all at least 98%. Coefficients of variation less than 10% were obtained for absolute and relative amounts of most individual fatty acids analyzed after separation of serum lipid classes. This method provides an efficient and convenient tool to follow fatty acid patterns in serum lipid fractions.