Characterization of Amino Acids by Pyrolysis/Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry of Their Phenylthiohydantoin Derivatives

A direct, simple means for characterization of the PTH derivatives of amino acids by the combined analysis techniques of pyrolysis/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry coupled with a computer data system is described. The pyrolysis of phenylthiohydantoins yields products which when separated by gas chromatography provide a pattern for the calculation of a diagnostic function for use in computer aided analysis. In addition, mass spectrometric data provide specific proof of structure in cases of ambiguity. The complete analysis scheme may be utilized in whole or in part as needed for a particular problem. The data needed and the relative contribution of available data from such a system are evaluated.