Silver ion chromatography for the analysis of trans-fatty acid isomers in humans

More than 65 different fatty acids, including positional and geometric fatty acid isomers, have been reported in humans. These isomers have the same molecular mass and very similar chemical structures but can have very different biological functions. The large number of cis- and trans-isomers in human blood pose analytical challenges and require detailed investigations to appropriately determine their effects on health and changes in the amount and composition in people. Silver ion chromatography, a technology used to separate complex fatty acid mixtures, in combination with an expanded version of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) gas chromatography-negative chemical ionization-mass spectrometry (GC-NCI-MS) method for fatty acids can effectively separate cis- and trans-fatty acid isomers. This approach has potential for determining comprehensive trans-fatty acid profiles in people.