Is UPLC the Next Game-Changer in Biological/Chemical Research?

  • Thread starter gravenewworld
  • Start date
In summary, UPLC is a new instrument that is said to be the next big thing in biological and chemical research due to its ability to provide unparalleled separations and shorter run times compared to traditional HPLC. However, it is seen by some as just an incremental improvement on HPLC and not a game-changer. It is also compared to flash chromatography, which has replaced column chromatography as the preferred method of purification in industry due to its improved efficiency. While UPLC may not be a fundamentally different method, its improved efficiency could still have a significant impact in research.
  • #1
gravenewworld
1,132
26
What is the future for UPLC? Is it the next big thing for biological/chemical research? Has anyone ever used one? How widely will this new instrument be needed in the foreseeable future?
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
Isn't UPLC just a fancy name for HPLC?
 
  • #3
Borek said:
Isn't UPLC just a fancy name for HPLC?

Pressures are much higher and particle sizes in the columns are smaller. You can get unparalleled separations and shorter run times with UPLC vs. traditional HPLC. Supposedly it is going to be an invaluable tool in the future for a ton of biological/biochemical research. I want to know from someone that's actually used one before what they are like, the pros vs cons, and the current limitations that they have.
 
  • #4
I hadn't even heard of it before. Seems UPLC is a brand name - did you just come from a marketing presentation or something?

I agree with Borek, it's just an incremental improvement on HPLC (which has naturally been improving incrementally for years regardless). I wouldn't call it a new tool or method, and I doubt it's a game-changer at all. It's a more efficient method, but not fundamentally different from HPLC. I'm sure the PR folks from Water Corp are of a different opinion, but I see it as an incremental improvement in technology which will give an incremental improvement in research, but it's not likely to open up any new fields or such.

AFAIK, the big current tech trend when it comes to e.g. protein purification are the highly automated so-called "high-throughput" methods.
 
  • #5
Meh, that's like saying there isn't a big difference between regular column chromatography and flash chromatography. Fundamentally are they the same thing? Yeah pretty much, but economically they are vastly different and flash chromatography has widely replaced column chromatography as the preferred method of purification many times in industry. Improving on efficiency can be just as big of a breakthrough as a completely new method or instrument.
 

FAQ: Is UPLC the Next Game-Changer in Biological/Chemical Research?

What is UPLC and how is it different from HPLC?

UPLC stands for Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography. It is a newer and more advanced version of High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). UPLC uses smaller particle sizes in the column, higher pressures, and faster flow rates, resulting in better resolution and faster analysis times compared to HPLC.

What are the benefits of using UPLC over other chromatography techniques?

UPLC offers several advantages over other chromatography techniques, including higher resolution, faster analysis times, and increased sensitivity. It also requires less solvent and produces less waste, making it more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

Can UPLC be used for all types of compounds?

UPLC can be used for a wide range of compounds, including small and large molecules, polar and non-polar compounds, and even complex mixtures. However, it may not be suitable for certain types of compounds, such as those that are thermally unstable or have low solubility in the mobile phase.

How does UPLC compare to other analytical techniques, such as mass spectrometry?

UPLC and mass spectrometry (MS) are often used together for more comprehensive analysis. UPLC provides separation of compounds, while MS provides identification and quantification of the separated compounds. UPLC-MS is a powerful analytical tool, offering high sensitivity and selectivity for a wide range of compounds.

Is UPLC suitable for routine analysis in a laboratory setting?

UPLC can be used for routine analysis in a laboratory setting, as it offers faster analysis times and higher throughput compared to other chromatography techniques. It also requires less maintenance and has a longer lifespan, making it a cost-effective option for routine analysis.

Similar threads

Most dangerous chemicals?
2
Replies
46
Views
3K
Recovery/development of low grade copper ore
Replies
1
Views
1K
Astatine's Interactions with Ion Exchange and Chromatography Resins
Replies
1
Views
672
Chemically regenerating my auto's catalytic converter?
Replies
19
Views
4K
How many living cells on Earth?
Replies
1
Views
2K
Storing chemicals on my balcony (storing in changing temps)
Replies
14
Views
1K
Hydrochloric Acid, NaOH, and English Ivy
Replies
19
Views
2K
Mathematical process for protein folding
Replies
5
Views
2K
B Why so many want, or are not disturbed by, a "deterministic" universe?
Replies
10
Views
4K
How Can I Safely Remove a Seized Aluminum Tube from a Gasoline or Diesel Tank?
Replies
32
Views
6K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top