Immuno-based sample preparation for trace analysis.

Immuno-based sample preparation techniques are based upon molecular recognition. Thanks to the high affinity and high selectivity of the antigen-antibody interaction, they have been shown to be a unique tool in the sampling area. Immuno-based sample preparation methods include the widely encountered immunoaffinity extraction sorbents, so-called immunosorbents, as well as membrane-baed or ultrafiltration techniques. This review describes the new developments and applications that have occurred in recent years with emphasis on (i) the antigen-antibody interactions, (ii) and their importance for the properties and use of immunosorbents, (iii) multiresidue extractions, (iv) the on-line coupling to chromatographic or electrophoretic separations, and (v) the high potential for improving MS detection. The recent use of artificial antibodies for sample pretreatment, so-called molecularly imprinted polymers, is also described.