Plasma polyamines determined by negative-ion chemical ionization/mass spectrometry.

We have developed an accurate and highly sensitive gas-chromatographic/mass-spectrometric procedure for determining di- and polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) in plasma and erythrocytes. Deuterium-labeled analogs of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine were synthesized for use as internal standards. Trifluoroacetyl derivatives of the polyamines were formed during the procedure and then detected with negative-ion chemical ionization/mass spectrometry in combination with multiple ion monitoring. Limits of sensitivity ranged from 0.25 to 1.0 pmol of analyte injected into the instrument.