Developing a Method for Determination of Urinary Delta-Amino-Levulinic Acid using Molecularly Imprinted Polymers

Delta-amino-levulinic acid (ALA) has been introduced as a biological exposure index for workers exposed to lead. In this study, a new analytical method has been developed using molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) in microextraction by packed sorbent for urine samples. A spectrophotometric analysis was carried out for urine samples. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to determine the main constituents of MIPs. The optimized method was fast, sensitive, selective, easy to use and friendly to the environment. The results indicated that the developed method is a suitable and rapid method for the bio-monitoring of individuals exposed to lead.