The Application of Matrix Solid Phase Dispersion (MSPD) to the Extraction and Subsequent Analysis of Drug Residues in Animal Tissues

Abstract

The contamination of our environment and of our food supply with industrial, agricultural and pharmaceutical agents possessing toxicologic and/or pharmacologic character are major man-made problems that must be redressed in the coming decade. The prevention, detection and elimination of such contamination constitute major challenges to our technology and our science and will result in significant financial resources being expended by private, State and National agencies to remediate and monitor these problems. Of particular concern is the use of veterinary drugs in the production and maintenance of food animals. The improper use of such drugs leaves residues of the parent and/or its metabolites in the tissues or milk of the animal so treated and, subsequently, in the food products derived from these sources. The presence of such drugs poses a potential threat to human health on toxicologic, immunopathological and microbiological grounds. Toxicological concerns relate to a direct toxic effect of the compound on the consumer, possibly resulting in physiological abnormalities, such as cancer. Immunopathological complications arise when the drug serves as an antigen, resulting in hypersensitivity reactions in sensitized individuals. Microbiological concerns relate to the transmittance of antibiotic resistance to bacteria from low level exposure to antibiotics and the possible emergence of resistant pathogenic bacteria in the natural flora of humans.