Separation of steroid isomers by ion mobility mass spectrometry (CAT#: STEM-ST-0141-LJX)

Introduction

Steroid hormones are synthesized from cholesterol mainly in the adrenal glands and the gonads, and in the human feto-placental unit. The high physiological significance of steroids is exemplified by their participation in the regulation of various central metabolic pathways, including reproductive functions, energy metabolism, water and salt balance, and behavioral and cognitive functions. Additionally, some androgens, due to their positive effects on muscle strength and anabolic actions, serve as doping agents in sports. Most steroids consist of α- and β-isomers. The "bent" steroid ring structure associated with β-isomers may have significantly different biological effects in the human body compared to the more planar ring structure in α-isomers. The ability to characterize and properly quantitate steroids in biological fluids at trace levels has been a major and challenging analytical goal.