Modern Approaches for Detecting and Separating Small Molecules
Instructor: Fang Wang, PhD, University of Rhode Island
Location: URI
Session 1: May 29 – May 31 ( Lab: Beaupre / Lecture Room: Avedisian Rm 205)
Session 2: June 19 – June 21 ( Lab: Beaupre / Lecture Room: Avedisian Rm 303)
Course Overview
This WDT Module offers an introductory overview of contemporary techniques for separating and analyzing small molecules. The first section of this module delves into the fundamentals of chemical separation technologies, with a focus on chromatography and crystallization. The second section explores molecular analysis methods, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). With a strong emphasis on hands-on laboratory experiences, this module equips students with a solid foundation for their future pursuits in related fields. The module will be completed over 2.5 days and participants who complete the module will receive an RI-INBRE Certificate of completion.
Learning Outcomes
- Present participants with essential techniques for small molecule separation and detection
- Upon completion, participants will have a fundamental understanding of small molecule purification and characterization principles
- The primary aim of this course is to lay the groundwork for participants’ future studies in chemical or biomedical sciences
Lab Report
Students will be expected to maintain detailed laboratory notes to include:
- Sample preparation
- Chemical analysis protocols
- Results
Resources Used in this Module:
Small molecules:
- Rhodamine 6G
- Fluoresceine
- Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)
- Acetaminophen (paracetamol)
The compounds are easily accessible through commercial sources, and their notably distinct physical properties enable feasible chromatography separation or crystallization purification. These compounds are widely used in biochemical and biomedical research, thereby capturing student’s broad interest. The use of structurally simple compounds 3 and 4 for mass spectrometric characterization aims to reduce the learning curve for students.
Standard Operating Procedure – Agilent 1260 HPLC
Standard Operating Procedure – Agilent LC/MSD iQ – Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer
Timeline
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM-10:00 AM | Introduction: Chromatography and Crystallization (lecture) | Introduction: Mass spectrometry (lecture) | Conclusion and Result Discussion (Open Discussion) |
| 10:00 AM-11:00 AM | Crystallization (lab) | Crystallization product collection (lab) | Conclusion and Result Discussion (Open Discussion) |
| 11:00 AM-12:00 PM | Thin-layer chromatography (lab) | Crystallization product collection (lab) | Conclusion and Result Discussion (Open Discussion) |
| 12:00 - 1:00 PM | Break | Break | WDT Survey and Certificate Distribution |
| 1:00 PM-2:00 PM | Flash chromatography (lab) | MS sample preparation and instrument familiarization (lab) | |
| 2:00 PM-3:00 PM | Flash chromatography (lab) | MS data collection and interpretation (lab) | |
| 3:00 PM-4:00 PM | HPLC analysis (lab) | MS data collection and interpretation (lab) |