Evaluating the efficacy of the VAMS Mitra microsampler for whole blood trace element analysis

Background: Volumetric Absorptive Microsampling (VAMS) is a blood sample collection method proposed as an alternative to venipuncture for metals/elements biomonitoring. However, the microsampler background concentration of metals and small blood volume remains critical limitations, particularly for metals or trace element analysis in environmental health and epidemiological research.

Materials & methods: Trace element analysis was performed to measure metal concentration in blood samples collected via VAMS and venipuncture using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). VAMS blanks showed elevated background concentration, and cleaning was attempted using a multi-step cleaning protocol. Detection limits and efficacy of background concentration reduction were evaluated.

Results: Initial analysis showed elevated background metal concentrations in the VAMS blank samplers, at or exceeding levels found in venous blood samples. VAMS blank with background concentration post-cleaning result indicated reductions in concentration for some metals; however, the concentration for most detected metals remained persistent.

Conclusions: The efficacy of VAMS in environmental health and epidemiological biomarker research demonstrates both the promising potential and limitations, and the effectiveness of a rigorous cleaning protocol in reducing or eliminating background metal concentrations on microsampler tips.