Page 4 - Advances in Forensic Applications of Mass Spectrometry - Jehuda Yinon

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Introduction

The continuing developments in analytical instrumentation during the last
several years have had a major influence on the forensic laboratory. Among
the instrumental methods used by the forensic analyst, the mass spectrometer
has become the method of choice. While in the early days of forensic mass
spectrometry GC/MS with electron ionization (EI), and later with chemical
ionization (CI), were the only mass spectrometry techniques used, today a
variety of MS techniques can be found in many forensic laboratories. Those
include mainly LC/MS with electrospray ionization (ESI) or atmospheric
pressure chemical ionization (APCI) and tandem mass spectrometry
(MS/MS) in triple quadrupole or ion trap configurations. These techniques
enable the detection and identification of trace components in complex mix-
tures at a high sensitivity as well as analysis of nonvolatile and thermally labile
compounds. The incorporation of new mass spectrometry techniques in the
forensic laboratory paved the road for new applications in forensic analysis.
The purpose of this book is to assemble in one volume forensic appli-
cations using novel mass spectrometry techniques which result in lower
detection limits and more reliable identification. In addition, the book
describes some new applications which were made possible due to this
advanced instrumentation.
Two chapters have been devoted to the detection and analysis of drugs
of abuse and their metabolites in body fluids (forensic toxicology). While
GC/MS was the main method used for this purpose, LC/MS is now playing
a major role in this important area and complements GC/MS.
Testing of athletes for drugs of abuse in major sporting events has
become routine. GC/MS and LC/MS have been used for drug testing of urine
and blood samples, which provides short-term information. A special chap-
ter has been devoted to the detection of doping agents in hair by mass
spectrometry, as hair testing has a larger surveillance window and can pro-
vide a long-term history.
The application of stable isotope ratios has become relevant for forensic
purposes with the development of more sensitive and accurate isotope ratio
mass spectrometers. The chapter dealing with this subject describes the meth-

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