Front Cover: Analysis of inorganic cations and amino acids in high salinity samples by capillary electrophoresis and conductivity detection: Implications for in ‐situ exploration of ocean worlds

DOI:10.1002/elps.201800266The cover picture shows inorganic salts (represented by NaCl crystal) and amino acids, important biosignatures in the search for extraterrestrial life. As in Earth's oceans, samples from Ocean Worlds such as Europa (Jupiter's moon) and Enceladus (Saturn's moon) are expected to contain high amounts of salts. We have developed an analytical method (bottom trace) capable of simultaneous determination of inorganic salts and amino acids, regardless the sample salinity. This method could be used in future missions targeting Ocean Worlds to determine the concentration of salts, to evaluate habitability, as well as to identify samples with potential biosignatures.

Source: Electrophoresis - November 19, 2018 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Mauro Sergio Ferreira Santos, Thiago Gomes Cordeiro, Aaron C. Noell, Carlos D. Garcia, Maria F. Mora Tags: Cover Picture Source Type: research