The Rise and Fall of GC

It seems that most pharma compounds are readily assayed by some form of LC. Yet GC still has its place when the compound itself, an intermediate, a derivate, or a metabolite is volatile and ultimate sensitivity is needed.

In a theoretically worst-case scenario, assume 99% of all pharma’s compounds are assayable by LC. This leaves just 1% to GC. Will this science be a forgotten entity? With this proportion of work ratio, it may not be justifiable for Pharma companies of any size to keep GC equipment operational, competently staffed and fully and currently qualified. Is it cost effective to continue to employ scientists who possess a firm grasp on the actual separation science that is needed to perform these experiments? The answer is only too logical. Outsource to a firm that has this capability.

From my personal experience which is confirmed by my colleagues what Ron Majors stated in an article appearing in the May 1, 2006 edition of LCGC Magazine is now 100% accurate.