A Brief Assessment of the Bioanalytical Methods by using LC-MS/MS for the Quantitation of Melatonin: A Potential Biomarker for Sleep-Related Disorders

Abstract

Due to its better sensitivity and selectivity, liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry is the preferred choice for the quantification and identification of biomarkers, parent molecules/ metabolites in human saliva, plasma and urine etc. All such quantification methods for melatonin in biological matrices have been summarized. Melatonin is considered as a potential biomarker for circadian rhythm disturbance related disorders such as cancer, depression, Insomnia, etc. Accurate quantification of melatonin is very challenging and critically depends upon the reproducibility and ruggedness of the analytical method. LC-MS/MS technique is considered as the preferred method of analysis for melatonin as compared to immunoassays. Most of bioanalytical melatonin quantification methods consist of, extraction from the biological matrix analyzing by LC-MS/MS. Our review shows that LC-MS/MS is a rugged and dependable instrument for the robust and precise quantitation of Melatonin. This review compiles key elements like extraction procedure, linearity range, and chromatographic conditions.