<p><strong>Cells in the human body constantly evaluate signals from their surroundings and decide whether to divide, grow, or remain inactive. One of the key systems controlling this communication is the so-called Wnt signalling pathway. If this mechanism becomes disrupted, cells can spiral out of control, leading to uncontrolled growth and the development of tumours. Scientists from CEITEC and the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University have now described a critical decision-making process – the point at which a cell’s future development is decided. Their findings may, in the future, contribute to the search for ways to slow down or stop such processes in diseases like cancer.</strong></p><p>The <strong>Wnt signalling pathway</strong> is a mechanism that coordinates billions of cells in the body – it is responsible for the development of an entire organism from a single cell, and it continues to regulate tissue renewal throughout adult life. Until now, it was not fully understood how this mechanism works in detail. However, new research by teams from Masaryk University (MUNI) shows that the cells do not respond to stimuli smoothly, but rather operate in an on-off mode once a certain decision-threshold is crossed. This principle changes our understanding of how cells function together and helps explain situations in which cellular decision-making goes out of control and may lead to cancer development.</p><p>The process begins at the surface of the cell, where a signal is captured by a receptor embedded in the cell membrane. A protein called Dishevelled (DVL) then binds to this receptor and carries the signal further into the cell. However, for the signal to continue, DVL must first undergo a series of chemical modifications. Small chemical groups begin to accumulate on its surface, progressively increasing its negative charge.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_4_7c8f80376d.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Tripsianes Lab: Scientists Uncover a Tipping Point in Cells. This Is How Cancer May Begin: New mechanism of Wnt signal transduction " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_4_7c8f80376d.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="604"></p><p>And this is where the<strong> decisive moment occurs</strong>.</p><p><i>“We found that the DVL protein behaves like a switch – its structure changes abruptly once the negative charge on its surface exceeds a certain threshold. Only then does it rearrange and allow the signal to proceed further,”</i> explains first author <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/miroslav-micka/u92423?page=publication"><strong>Miroslav Micka</strong></a>.</p><p>At this point, DVL detaches from the receptor, allowing the signal to move deeper into the cell. The cell then receives a clear instruction on how to respond – for example, to start dividing or change its function.</p><p>This crucial “tipping point,” where the fate of the signal is decided, has so far been only partially understood: <i>“Scientists knew the pathway the signal follows, but they mostly viewed it as a gradual regulatory system. However, our teams have shown that it is rather a process based on decision points and abrupt changes once a certain threshold is crossed. This is important not only for understanding how cells function, but also for explaining what happens when these processes become dysregulated,”</i> add corresponding authors <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/konstantinos-tripsianes-ph-d/u17552?page=publication"><strong>Konstantinos Tripsianes</strong></a><strong> from CEITEC MUNI</strong> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.muni.cz/en/people/11088-vitezslav-bryja"><strong>Vítězslav Bryja</strong></a><strong> from the Faculty of Science</strong>.</p><p>Such decision points in cellular signalling are particularly important from a medical perspective, as their disruption can trigger processes that lead to tumour development. A better understanding of these processes, on the other hand, paves the way for more effective treatments.</p><p>The study was published in the journal <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aed8899"><strong>Science Advances</strong></a>.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_2_af629ac80a.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Tripsianes Lab: Scientists Uncover a Tipping Point in Cells. This Is How Cancer May Begin: DVL in a cell (green), cell nucleus (blue)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_2_af629ac80a.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1600"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_36bfbfa0c6.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Tripsianes Lab: Scientists Uncover a Tipping Point in Cells. This Is How Cancer May Begin: DVL in a cell (green), enzym modifiyng DVL (red), cell nucleus (blue)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_36bfbfa0c6.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1600"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_3_f21d18e3ca.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Tripsianes Lab: Scientists Uncover a Tipping Point in Cells. This Is How Cancer May Begin: DVL in a cell (green), enzym modifiyng DVL (red), cell nucleus (blue)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Vedci_nasli_bod_zlomu_v_bunce_Prave_takto_muze_zacit_rakovina_3_f21d18e3ca.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1600"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><h4><strong>Original article</strong></h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aed8899"><strong>A Wnt-induced conformational phospho-switch in DVL3 controls association with Frizzled receptors and Wnt/β-catenin signaling</strong></a></h4><p>Miroslav Micka, Jitender Kumar, Petra Paclíková, Zuzana Hayek, Kateřina Hanáková, Cherine Bechara, Hana Plešingerová, Ondrej Šedo, Sara Bologna, Elise Del Nero, Kristína Gömöryová, Vojtěch Bystrý, Tomáš Gybel, Tereza Čihalová, Marek Kravec, David Potěšil, Zbyněk Zdráhal, Konstantinos Tripsianes a Vítězslav Bryja.</p><p><i><strong>Sci. Adv., 2026, 12(20), eaed8899</strong></i></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aed8899">DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aed8899</a></p><h6>licenced under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><h4><strong>Abstract</strong></h4><p>It is well known that Dishevelled (DVL) phosphorylation by casein kinase 1 (CK1) relays Wnt signals from Frizzled (FZD) receptors to downstream effectors, yet any mechanistic aspects of DVL function related to phosphorylation remain unresolved. Here, we uncovered a Wnt-induced DVL phospho-switch that is mutually exclusive with FZD association. CK1 multiphosphorylation changes dramatically the bulk electrostatics to promote DVL intramolecular interaction between the DEP domain and the adjacent disordered region. A panel of DVL3 mutants demonstrated a switch-like behavior at the molecular level when a charge threshold was reached. Charge accumulation proximal to DEP proved to be a key functional event required, but not sufficient, for Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Proximity interactomics revealed FZD receptors as the prominent effectors of the DVL phospho-switch function consistent with the molecular competition at the DEP interface. By integrating findings at different levels, we propose a universal mechanism, in which Wnt-induced DVL conformational phospho-switch attenuates coresidence with FZDs as a means for downstream signaling events.</p>

 Scientists Uncover a Tipping Point in Cells. This Is How Cancer May Begin 

<div><div><p><strong>Deoxyribozymes represent a new frontier in biotechnology. They show that DNA is much more than a storage molecule for genetic information: it can also function as a catalytic machine. Unlike traditional enzymes made of proteins, such DNA-based tools are stable, easy to produce in large quantities, and can be evolved in a lab to perform different chemical tasks we need. Their potential is vast, ranging from low-cost diagnostic kits to high-speed screening tools that can facilitate drug discovery. As our ability to understand and predict their behavior continues to improve, these versatile molecules are becoming a cornerstone for future personalized medicine and environmental monitoring.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/IOCB_Prague_Deoxyribozymes_tools_for_precision_sensing_and_machine_learning_guided_discoveries_e771c8c360.jpeg" alt="IOCB Prague: Deoxyribozymes, tools for precision sensing and machine learning-guided discoveries: Researchers described a new assay for DNA-editing enzymes in which the substrate in the reaction is a chemiluminescent deoxyribozyme called Supernova. ACS Chem. Biol. 2026, 21, 5, 941-950" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_IOCB_Prague_Deoxyribozymes_tools_for_precision_sensing_and_machine_learning_guided_discoveries_e771c8c360.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1049" height="561"></p></div></div><div><p>Researchers led by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://curtis.group.uochb.cz/en"><strong>Edward Curtis</strong></a> from IOCB Prague have developed a remarkable DNA molecule called Supernova that acts as a tiny biological flashlight, glowing blue during a specific chemical reaction. By tweaking its sequence, scientists transformed Supernova into a sensor capable of detecting DNA-editing enzymes, which are proteins that alter the sequence of DNA and are often linked to the development of cancer. These new sensors represent a step forward because they are roughly three times faster and over five times cheaper than standard assays. Depending on how they are designed, these sensors can be either "turned off" or "turned on" by a DNA-editing enzyme in a sample. Such sensors will make characterization of DNA-editing enzymes easier, and could also help scientists to find new inhibitors.</p><div><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/IOCB_Prague_Deoxyribozymes_tools_for_precision_sensing_and_machine_learning_guided_discoveries_2_8e228a1903.jpeg" alt="IOCB Prague: Deoxyribozymes, tools for precision sensing and machine learning-guided discoveries: Researchers also systematically investigated the specificities of self-phosphorylating deoxyribozymes that convert the coumarin substrate 4-MUP into a fluorescent product using biochemical assays, single-step selections, and machine learning. ACS Chem. Biol. 2026, 21, 5, 951-959" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_IOCB_Prague_Deoxyribozymes_tools_for_precision_sensing_and_machine_learning_guided_discoveries_2_8e228a1903.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1561" height="505"></p><p>In another advance, researchers in the Curtis Group used a fluorescent deoxyribozyme named Aurora to explore how these molecular tools can be taught to recognize specific chemical targets. Using a combination of artificial evolution and machine learning, the team successfully identified specific mutations that change Aurora’s preference for one substrate over another. Machine learning is particularly powerful here because it allows researchers to predict how millions of different DNA variants will behave without having to test each one individually in a lab. This approach helps us understand the fundamental rules of how DNA molecules interact with the world, which is essential for designing more precise medicines and diagnostic tools.</p><h3><strong>These results are described in two recent publications:</strong></h3><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acschembio.5c00927"><strong>Chemiluminescent Deoxyribozyme Sensors for DNA-Editing Enzymes</strong></a></h4><p>Jakubec, M.; Svoboda, M.; Kurfürst, J.; Svehlova, K.; Veverka, V.; Curtis, E. A. &nbsp;</p><p><i>ACS Chem. Biol. </i><strong>2026</strong></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://doi.org/10.1021/acschembio.5c00927">http://doi.org/10.1021/acschembio.5c00927</a></p><h6><strong>licensed under </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><h4><strong>Abstract</strong></h4><p>DNA-editing enzymes such as those in the APOBEC family of cytidine deaminases play important roles in both normal and pathogenic function, while engineered enzymes offer exciting new possibilities for genome editing. Despite their importance, widely used assays for DNA-editing enzymes are time-consuming and expensive. Here, we describe a new assay for DNA-editing enzymes in which the substrate in the reaction is a chemiluminescent deoxyribozyme called Supernova. Editing alters the sequence of Supernova, which results in a change in catalytic activity and light production. By analyzing a data set of Supernova variants previously identified by selection and high-throughput sequencing, it was possible to generate sensors with a wide range of specificities. Sensors were also developed for APOBEC3A, a cytidine deaminase which converts C to U in single-stranded DNA and RNA. These include a turn-off sensor that produces light 14-fold slower after incubation with recombinant APOBEC3A than in its absence, and a turn-on sensor that generates light 10-fold faster after incubation with APOBEC3A than in its absence. Assays that use these sensors are faster and less expensive than existing ones, and should be particularly useful for applications such as high-throughput screening.</p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acschembio.5c00969"><strong>Probing the Specificity of Fluorescent Deoxyribozymes Using Single-Step Selections and Machine Learning</strong></a></h4><p>Král’ová, Z.; Isler, L.; Volek, M.; Jandová, M.; Kurfürst, J.; Curtis, E. A.&nbsp;</p><p><i>ACS Chem. Biol. </i><strong>2026</strong>&nbsp;</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://doi.org/10.1021/acschembio.5c00969">http://doi.org/10.1021/acschembio.5c00969</a></p><h6><strong>licensed under </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><h4><strong>Abstract</strong></h4><p>The ability of proteins and nucleic acids to form specific binding sites for ligands is critical for biological function, and methods to modulate biochemical specificity are important for fields such as enzyme engineering and drug design. Here, we systematically investigated the specificities of self-phosphorylating deoxyribozymes that convert the coumarin substrate 4-MUP into a fluorescent product using biochemical assays, single-step selections, and machine learning. Activity assays using a panel of 20 catalytic motifs and 10 substrates that generate different types of signals when they are dephosphorylated revealed that these deoxyribozymes are extremely specific for 4-MUP. To identify mutations that change specificity, we constructed a library based on a self-phosphorylating fluorescent deoxyribozyme called Aurora. A series of single-step selections yielded variants that react with 4-MUP and the structurally similar substrate diFMUP, but not with the more distinct substrates pNPP and ELF. Pairwise analysis of sequences in the 4-MUP and diFMUP data sets revealed four mutations that modulate Aurora specificity. The effects of these mutations were confirmed using biochemical assays and could be predicted using models developed by machine learning. Taken together, our results show how single-step selections can be used to identify mutations that change the specificity of a deoxyribozyme. They also highlight how machine learning can be used to model complex data sets from <i>in vitro</i> selection experiments.</p></div></div>

Deoxyribozymes, tools for precision sensing and machine learning-guided discoveries

<p><strong>🎤Kelly Broster McMahon (Senior Manager of Market Development and Collaborations at Thermo Fisher Scientific).&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Kelly has over 15 years of experience in LC-MS and protein mass spectrometry. Her work focuses on translating complex analytical challenges into scalable, compliant workflows for the biopharmaceutical industry.</p><p><strong>In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Kelly Broster McMahon to explore the analytical science behind one of the most important pharmaceutical trends today: GLP-1 therapeutics.</strong></p><p>Drugs like Semaglutide have transformed the treatment of diabetes and obesity—but ensuring their safety, efficacy, and quality requires cutting-edge analytical workflows.</p><p>In this conversation, we break down how chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-MS) work together to characterize complex peptide therapeutics, detect trace-level impurities, and support drug development from early research through regulated manufacturing.</p><h4><strong>What You’ll Learn</strong></h4><ul><li>Why GLP-1 drugs are uniquely challenging to analyze</li><li>How LC-MS enables detailed peptide characterization</li><li>The importance of detecting low-level impurities for patient safety</li><li>How analytical workflows scale from R&amp;D to manufacturing</li><li>The role of software and data platforms in modern labs</li><li>Where chromatography and mass spectrometry are heading next</li></ul><h4><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h4><ul><li>GLP-1 therapeutics are a “proof point” for the future of analytical chemistry—where success depends not on measuring more, but on measuring the right things earlier, with confidence.</li><li>As molecules become more complex, integrated workflows combining chromatography, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and advanced informatics are becoming essential to ensure data integrity, regulatory compliance, and ultimately, patient safety.</li></ul><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><p>In this episode, Kelly, Senior Manager of Market Development and Collaborations at Thermo Fisher Scientific, discusses the analytical challenges associated with GLP-1 peptide therapeutics and explains how modern chromatography, high-resolution mass spectrometry, software, and data platforms are shaping the future of biopharmaceutical development. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience in LC-MS and protein mass spectrometry, she shares insights into peptide characterization, impurity profiling, workflow continuity, and the growing role of AI in analytical science.</p><h4><strong>Kelly's Background in Biopharmaceutical Analysis</strong></h4><p>Kelly currently focuses on biopharmaceutical development at Thermo Fisher Scientific, working closely with industry partners to transform complex analytical challenges into scalable and compliant workflows. Her scientific background includes cancer biology, quantitative proteomics, biomarker assays, systems oncology, and mass spectrometry-based drug discovery. Throughout her academic and industrial career, she has applied mass spectrometry to support patient stratification, treatment monitoring, and therapeutic development.</p><h4><strong>Why GLP-1 Therapeutics Are So Important Right Now</strong></h4><p>GLP-1 drugs have become one of the most discussed therapeutic classes because they occupy a unique space between traditional small molecules and large biologics. Their structural complexity, sensitivity to degradation, and global manufacturing scale make them an ideal example of how analytical science must evolve.</p><p>According to Kelly, these molecules require greater analytical sensitivity, deeper structural characterization, and seamless workflows that support everything from discovery through manufacturing and regulatory submission.</p><h4><strong>Analytical Challenges of Peptide Therapeutics</strong></h4><p>Unlike conventional small molecules, peptide drugs such as semaglutide are larger, conformationally dynamic, and often chemically modified to improve stability, half-life, and absorption.</p><p>These therapeutics may contain:</p><ul><li>Sequence variants</li><li>Oxidation products</li><li>Deamidation products</li><li>Aggregates</li><li>Trace-level impurities</li></ul><p>Many of these species are difficult to separate chromatographically and challenging to identify confidently. As a result, peptide characterization requires both highly selective chromatography and high-resolution accurate-mass spectrometry.</p><h4><strong>What GLP-1 Drugs Teach Us About the Future of Analytical Science</strong></h4><p>Kelly emphasized that the future of analytical science is not necessarily about generating more data but about measuring the right attributes earlier and with greater confidence.</p><p>GLP-1 developers increasingly require integrated analytical workflows that generate actionable insights during discovery while remaining robust enough to support late-stage development, manufacturing, and global regulatory filings. This trend highlights the growing importance of scalable and harmonized analytical ecosystems.</p><h4><strong>Why Small Molecular Changes Matter</strong></h4><p>Even a single amino acid substitution or post-translational modification can dramatically alter a peptide's biological behavior.</p><p>Minor structural changes may affect:</p><ul><li>Receptor binding</li><li>Potency</li><li>Stability</li><li>Immunogenicity</li></ul><p>Because these changes can directly influence safety and efficacy, regulatory agencies require precise structural characterization and control throughout development and manufacturing.</p><h4><strong>The Power of Combining Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry</strong></h4><p>For complex peptide therapeutics, chromatography and mass spectrometry work together to provide comprehensive characterization.</p><p>Chromatography separates complex mixtures and resolves closely related species, while high-resolution mass spectrometry provides molecular specificity and structural confirmation. Together, advanced UHPLC and HRAM MS deliver the selectivity, sensitivity, and confidence required for modern peptide analysis.</p><h4><strong>The Value of High-Resolution Accurate-Mass Spectrometry</strong></h4><p>Kelly described high-resolution accurate-mass (HRAM) mass spectrometry as an indispensable technology for drug development.</p><p>Compared with older analytical approaches, HRAM provides:</p><ul><li>Exact mass measurements</li><li>Isotopic resolution</li><li>Structural confirmation</li><li>Trace impurity detection</li><li>Identification of sequence variants</li><li>Characterization of post-translational modifications</li></ul><p>These capabilities enable confident data generation that can withstand regulatory scrutiny, audits, and global submissions.</p><h4><strong>Why Sensitivity Is Critical</strong></h4><p>The distinction between a safe and unsafe therapeutic can exist at extremely low concentration levels.</p><p>Detecting impurities at parts-per-billion levels allows developers to identify risks early in development and address them before manufacturing scale-up. Analytical sensitivity therefore supports both regulatory confidence and patient safety.</p><h4><strong>Resolving Co-Eluting Impurities</strong></h4><p>One of the greatest challenges in peptide analysis is distinguishing nearly identical molecular species.</p><p>By combining ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometry with optimized chromatographic separations, scientists can accurately differentiate closely related compounds and remove uncertainty from impurity profiling. This capability is essential for both regulatory submissions and therapeutic safety assessments.</p><h4><strong>Workflow Continuity Across Drug Development</strong></h4><p>Kelly stressed that analytical methods should not be reinvented at every stage of development.</p><p>Instead, workflows should transition smoothly from:</p><ul><li>Research and discovery</li><li>Development</li><li>Quality control</li><li>Manufacturing</li></ul><p>Maintaining continuity improves reproducibility, preserves data integrity, and enables scalable development without disrupting analytical performance.</p><h4><strong>The Evolution of Instruments, Software, and Data Platforms</strong></h4><p>Modern analytical ecosystems extend beyond LC-MS instrumentation alone.</p><p>Today's workflows integrate:</p><ul><li>Consumables</li><li>Chromatography systems</li><li>Mass spectrometers</li><li>Informatics platforms</li></ul><p>Instrumentation continues to become faster, more sensitive, and capable of higher throughput, while advanced software transforms complex datasets into actionable insights. These integrated platforms support compliance, traceability, and harmonized global operations.</p><h4><strong>Data Integrity and Regulatory Compliance</strong></h4><p>As drug development becomes increasingly global, maintaining data integrity is more important than ever.</p><p>Validated software systems, secure data management tools, and comprehensive audit trails help organizations harmonize workflows across multiple sites while ensuring that generated data can withstand regulatory review worldwide.</p><h4><strong>Lessons for Next-Generation Biologics</strong></h4><p>Although GLP-1 therapeutics are currently in the spotlight, Kelly believes the broader lesson is that molecular complexity is increasing across all therapeutic classes.</p><p>This includes:</p><ul><li>Peptides</li><li>Monoclonal antibodies</li><li>Fusion proteins</li><li>Advanced biologics</li></ul><p>Across all these modalities, the need for deeper molecular understanding, early risk detection, and scalable analytical control continues to grow.</p><h4><strong>Biosimilars, Generics, and Equivalence Testing</strong></h4><p>As GLP-1 patents expire, analytical science will play a crucial role in establishing biosimilarity and equivalence.</p><p>Developers must demonstrate rigorous structural and functional comparability between original products and follow-on versions. High-resolution analytical platforms provide the depth of characterization required to prove equivalence while protecting patient safety and therapeutic efficacy.</p><h4><strong>Future Opportunities in Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry</strong></h4><p>Looking ahead, Kelly sees significant innovation opportunities in:</p><ul><li>Greater integration of analytical platforms</li><li>Faster chromatographic separations</li><li>Enhanced multiplexing</li><li>Smarter data analytics</li><li>Increased automation</li><li>Real-time process monitoring</li><li>Process analytical technologies (PAT)</li></ul><p>These developments will bring analytical insights closer to manufacturing environments and improve efficiency across the drug development lifecycle.</p><h4><strong>The Next 5–10 Years</strong></h4><p>Over the next decade, Kelly expects analytical workflows to become:</p><ul><li>More predictive</li><li>More automated</li><li>More interconnected</li><li>Increasingly supported by AI-driven interpretation</li></ul><p>However, she emphasized that these advances must remain grounded in high-quality analytical data generated by ultra-high-resolution instrumentation.</p><h4><strong>Final Thoughts</strong></h4><p>Kelly concluded by highlighting the critical role analytical scientists play in enabling patient access to safe and effective medicines. By identifying hidden risks, characterizing complex molecules, and supporting innovation without compromising scientific rigor, analytical science remains a cornerstone of modern drug development and aligns directly with Thermo Fisher Scientific's mission of making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer.</p><blockquote><p><strong>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</strong></p></blockquote><blockquote><h4><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</strong></h4><p>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!</p><p>You can find <strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast </strong>in podcast apps:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL"><strong>Spotify</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185"><strong>Apple podcast</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography"><strong>podscan</strong></a></li></ul><p>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos"><strong>YouTube channel</strong></a></p></blockquote>

How GLP-1 Drugs Are Analyzed: Chromatography & Mass Spectrometry Explained

Article

Video

Scientists

Interview

Science and research

Since its establishment in 2011, CEITEC has quickly developed into a cutting-edge infrastructure for research which performs highly alongside the best institutes in Europe. Among the main priorities of CEITEC are the promotion of a motivating and dynamic international scientific environment, the provision of state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and the policy of open communication and equal opportunities.

CEITEC

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague) is a leading scientific institution in the Czech Republic, recognized internationally. Its primary mission is basic research in the fields of chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, organic and material oriented chemistry, chemistry of natural compounds, biochemistry and molecular biology, physical chemistry, theoretical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. 

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences

Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

Organomation

Waters Oasis SPE products

Waters Oasis SPE products come in a broad range of sorbents and an array of formats. With Oasis products, you can meet a wide variety of sample preparation needs.

<h4><strong>Faster, cleaner, and simpler SPE starts here</strong></h4><p>Analytical chemists worldwide use SPE to remove interfering matrix compounds and enrich the analyte of interest to ensure the generation of high-quality data.</p><p>Waters Oasis SPE products come in a broad range of sorbents and an array of formats. With Oasis products, you can meet a wide variety of sample preparation needs, from simple and fast sample matrix clean-up to more complex sample preparation challenges.</p><p>Oasis SPE products deliver unmatched purity, consistency, and quality for sample analysis. Along with seven different SPE chemistries, Oasis SPE products use universal to customized protocols to handle your unique sample.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Oasis_SPE_kolonky_2_967d461f2e/Waters-Oasis-SPE-kolonky-2.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis SPE" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Oasis_SPE_kolonky_2_967d461f2e/thumbnail_Waters-Oasis-SPE-kolonky-2.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="950" height="416"></p><h4><strong>Overview</strong></h4><ul><li>Fully water-wettable sorbents increase reproducibility and enable elimination of condition and equilibration steps</li><li>Co-polymer pH stable from 0–14 with no secondary silanol activity</li><li>Optimal sensitivity for small molecule and therapeutic peptide analysis</li><li>Reduced matrix effects for LC-MS/MS analyses</li><li>Unsurpassed selectivity</li><li>Consistent retention and capacity, yielding the highest SPE recovery</li><li>Reduces variability in analytical results and increases robustness of analysis</li><li><strong>Recommended Use: </strong>For the fastest, cleanest, and simplest approach to SPE-LC-MS/MS method development.</li></ul><h4><strong>Solid-Phase Extraction Chemistries</strong></h4><h5><strong>Oasis PRiME HLB</strong></h5><ul><li>Multi-purpose hydrophilic-lipophilic balanced reversed phase sorbent for acids, bases, and neutrals</li><li>Cleaner samples in fewer steps with simple three-and two-step protocols, no SPE expertise required</li><li>Removes 95% of common matrix interferences, such as proteins, salts, phospholipids, and pigments</li><li>No sorbent conditioning or equilibration steps required</li><li>Faster, more predictable analysis time</li><li>Ideal for reversed-phase SPE clean-up of samples in routine analysis.</li></ul><h5><strong>Oasis PRiME MCX</strong></h5><ul><li>Mixed-mode Cation eXchange sorbent to selectively retain, concentrate and elute basic compounds</li><li>Reversed-phase and ion-exchange functionality for orthogonal sample preparation</li><li>Cleaner samples in fewer steps with simple and fast 3 and 4-step protocols</li><li>Removes 99% of phospholipids from complex sample matrices</li><li>No sorbent conditioning or equilibration steps required</li><li>Faster, more predictable analysis time</li><li>Highly reproducible target analyte recoveries</li><li>Ideal for basic compound specificity while removing matrix interferences in a simple clean-up.</li></ul><h5><strong>Oasis HLB</strong></h5><ul><li>Multi-purpose hydrophilic-lipophilic balanced reversed phase sorbent</li><li>Provides high capacity for acids, bases, and neutrals</li><li>Ideal for ultra-high capacity of very polar compounds.</li></ul><h5><strong>Oasis MCX</strong></h5><ul><li>Mixed-mode Cation eXchange sorbent for bases</li><li>Increased analyte specificity and sensitivity</li><li>Reversed-phase and ion-exchange functionality for orthogonal sample preparation</li><li>Ideal for selective retention of basic analytes.</li></ul><h5><strong>Oasis MAX</strong></h5><ul><li>Mixed-mode Anion eXchange for acids</li><li>Increased analyte specificity and sensitivity</li><li>Reversed-phase and ion-exchange functionality for orthogonal sample preparation</li><li>Ideal for selective retention of acidic analytes.</li></ul><h5><strong>Oasis WAX</strong></h5><ul><li>Weak Anion eXchange mixed-mode sorbent for strong acidic compounds</li><li>Increased analyte specificity and sensitivity</li><li>Reversed-phase and ion-exchange functionality for orthogonal sample preparation</li><li>Ideal for improved retention of strong acidic compounds.</li></ul><h5><strong>Oasis WCX</strong></h5><ul><li>Weak Cation eXchange mixed-mode sorbent for strong basic compounds</li><li>Increased analyte specificity and sensitivity</li><li>Reversed-phase and ion-exchange functionality for orthogonal sample preparation</li><li>Ideal for improved retention of all basic analytes, especially strong bases.</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Sorbenty_Oasis_SPE_na_bazi_kopolymeru_Oasis_HLB_c8ffee39b3/Waters-Sorbenty-Oasis-SPE-na-bazi-kopolymeru-Oasis-HLB.png" alt="Waters: Oasis Sorbents" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Sorbenty_Oasis_SPE_na_bazi_kopolymeru_Oasis_HLB_c8ffee39b3/thumbnail_Waters-Sorbenty-Oasis-SPE-na-bazi-kopolymeru-Oasis-HLB.png 211w," sizes="100vw" width="1511" height="1119"></p><h4><strong>Oasis Formats</strong></h4><h5><strong>Oasis μElution Plate</strong></h5><ul><li>Patented μElution plate design</li><li>No evaporation and reconstitution necessary due to elution volumes as low as 25 µL</li><li>Ideal for SPE clean-up and analyte enrichment of small sample volumes</li><li>Compatible with most liquid-handling robotic systems for automated, reliable high-throughput SPE (HT-SPE)</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Corporation_Oasis_m_Elution_Plate_aa7e36a4c1.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis µElution Plate" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Corporation_Oasis_m_Elution_Plate_aa7e36a4c1.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="502" height="260"></p><h5><strong>Oasis 96-Well Sample Extraction Plates</strong></h5><ul><li>Innovative, award-winning two-stage well design</li><li>High throughput and high recovery</li><li>Compatible with most liquid-handling robotic systems for automated, reliable high-throughput SPE (HT-SPE)</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Corporation_Oasis_96_Well_Sample_Extraction_Plates_9528d532b9.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis 96-Well Sample Extraction Plates" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Corporation_Oasis_96_Well_Sample_Extraction_Plates_9528d532b9.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="525" height="329"></p><h5><strong>Oasis Syringe-Barrel Cartridges</strong></h5><ul><li>Ultra-clean syringe barrel and frits</li><li>Available in cartridges ranging from 1 cc to 60 cc</li><li>Flangeless syringe-barrel cartridges available in 1 cc, 3 cc, and 6 cc sizes</li><li>Plus-style cartridges with Luer inlet hub and outlet tip, compatible with hand-held syringes</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Corporation_Oasis_Syringe_Barrel_Cartridges_961aa06b8a.jpg" alt="Waters Corporation: Oasis Syringe-Barrel Cartridges" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Corporation_Oasis_Syringe_Barrel_Cartridges_961aa06b8a.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="503" height="311"></p><h5><strong>Oasis Glass Cartridges</strong></h5><ul><li>Ultra-clean glass syringe with Teflon® frit</li><li>For trace level detection and analysis at part-per-trillion (PPT) levels</li><li>Available in 5 cc (200 mg) configuration</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Corporation_Oasis_Glass_Cartridges_5e96319c7f.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis Glass Cartridges" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Corporation_Oasis_Glass_Cartridges_5e96319c7f.jpg 188w," sizes="100vw" width="409" height="339"></p><h5><strong>Oasis On-Line Columns and Cartridges</strong></h5><ul><li>For rugged, reproducible, and ultra-fast on-line analysis</li><li>Wide choice of configurations, particle sizes, and sorbent chemistries</li><li>Available with all six patented Oasis sorbents—PRiME HLB, HLB, MCX, MAX, WCX, and WAX</li><li>High recovery and reproducible results for a wide range of compounds</li><li>Cartridge format for use with Spark Holland Prospekt-2™/Symbiosis™ systems also available</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Corporation_Oasis_On_Line_Columns_and_Cartridges_ba02114c92.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis On-Line Columns and Cartridges" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Corporation_Oasis_On_Line_Columns_and_Cartridges_ba02114c92.jpg 168w," sizes="100vw" width="415" height="386"></p><h4><strong>Sample preparation, improved</strong></h4><p>Improving various aspects of chromatography and mass spectrometry analyses often starts with sample preparation. &nbsp;Solid-phase extraction (SPE) or "liquid-solid phase extraction" is a sample preparation technology that uses particles of chromatographic packing material, usually in a cartridge or 96-well plate format, to chemically separate different analytes and aid in removing matrix components in a sample. &nbsp;</p><p>SPE is a proven sample preparation tool for simple sample matrix removal, including common interferences like proteins, salts, fats and phospholipids. This matrix removal provides many benefits, including matrix effect reduction and an increase in sample concentration and analyte specificity. Matrix removal also significantly simplifies chromatographic complexity by reducing the number of interfering peaks in the LC and reducing signal suppression by providing clean samples for the MS.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Corporation_Oasis_SPE_LC_MS_MS_chromatogram_of_1_pgm_L_of_alprazolam_from_rat_plasma_8b7275b25b.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis SPE - LC-MS-MS chromatogram of 1 pgmL of alprazolam from rat plasma" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Corporation_Oasis_SPE_LC_MS_MS_chromatogram_of_1_pgm_L_of_alprazolam_from_rat_plasma_8b7275b25b.jpg 169w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="946"></p><h4><strong>Get the cleanest extracts with the Oasis 2x4 method</strong></h4><p>Having a variety of tools for method development allows separation scientists to optimize protocols for maximum sensitivity and selectivity. The Oasis 2x4 method for SPE sorbent and protocol selection for acids, bases, and neutrals produces the cleanest extracts – all by eliminating matrix interferences and sample variability. Get the flexibility to extract acids, bases, and neutrals with high SPE recoveries while removing matrix components that may interfere with analysis with our two protocols and four sorbents. By following the simple steps outlined in the Oasis 2x4 method, you can achieve high recoveries and the cleanest extracts.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Oasis_2x4_protokol_pro_vyvoj_metody_c417be9006/Waters-Oasis-2x4-protokol-pro-vyvoj-metody.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis SPE - Oasis 2 x 4 method development protocol." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Oasis_2x4_protokol_pro_vyvoj_metody_c417be9006/thumbnail_Waters-Oasis-2x4-protokol-pro-vyvoj-metody.jpg 242w," sizes="100vw" width="1519" height="979"></p><h4><strong>Isolate your compounds with the Oasis HLB method</strong></h4><p>Solid-phase extraction (SPE) method development starts with knowledge of the sample matrix—the nature and relative concentration of the analytes of interest and potentially interfering endogenous compounds. The right sorbent and solvents are selected for load, wash, and elute steps, resulting in the creation of rugged, reliable, and selective protocols. The Oasis HLB method is a generic protocol used to isolate a broad range of acidic, basic, and neutral compounds from a wide spectrum of matrices.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Corporation_Oasis_SPE_Generic_Method_Protocol_with_Oasis_HLB_SPE_83d684704d.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis SPE - Generic Method Protocol with Oasis HLB SPE" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Corporation_Oasis_SPE_Generic_Method_Protocol_with_Oasis_HLB_SPE_83d684704d.jpg 139w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="1153"></p><h4><strong>Multiple contaminant analysis with the 2-step pass-through protocol</strong></h4><p>If you are doing multiple residue screening of veterinary drugs, pesticides and mycotoxins in various food matrices, you may be facing a high concentration of organic solvents. With our simple 2-step protocol (pass-through SPE), you can remove matrix interferences quickly if your samples contain a high concentration of organic solvent(s) and concentration and/or salt removal is not required. It can be used as the clean-up method following QuEChERS extraction, saving you significant time compared to the traditional dispersive SPE method - all while achieving superior clean-up.</p><p><strong>To do pass-through SPE, Waters offers 2 convenient and flexible formats:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Traditional-style cartridges</strong> compatible with vacuum and positive pressure manifolds&nbsp;</li><li><strong>"Plus" style cartridges</strong> that can be used without manifolds when connected to a displacement syringe</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Waters_Oasis_SPE_kolonky_3_b4da6242de/Waters-Oasis-SPE-kolonky-3.jpg" alt="Waters: Oasis Plus Light and Plus Short Cartridges for 2-step pass through protocol." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Waters_Oasis_SPE_kolonky_3_b4da6242de/thumbnail_Waters-Oasis-SPE-kolonky-3.jpg 152w," sizes="100vw" width="1308" height="1342"></p>

Products from category SPE sample preparation focused on Sample Preparation distributed by Waters Corporation (Europe) - page 1

Related content

How GLP-1 Drugs Are Analyzed: Chromatography & Mass Spectrometry Explained

Deoxyribozymes, tools for precision sensing and machine learning-guided discoveries

Scientists Uncover a Tipping Point in Cells. This Is How Cancer May Begin