<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

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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

Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits

QuEChERS is a versatile sample preparation method for analyzing pesticides, veterinary drugs, and other residues in various sample types before GC-MS or LC-MS analysis.

<div><div><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS sample preparation—now easier, more convenient, and affordable</strong></h3><p><strong>QuEChERS</strong> (<strong><u>Q</u></strong><u>u</u>ick, <strong><u>E</u></strong>asy, <strong><u>C</u></strong>heap, <strong><u>E</u></strong>ffective, <strong><u>R</u></strong>ugged, and <strong><u>S</u></strong>afe)is a <strong>sample preparation method</strong> that was initially developed in 2003 for <strong>analyzing veterinary drugs in food</strong>. The method was also tested for <strong>pesticide residue analysis in plant material</strong> with great success. In 2003, the <strong>detailed method was published</strong> in the journal AOAC International. Since then, the QuEChERS method has evolved into a <strong>sample preparation technique used on a variety of analytes</strong> in an <strong>expanding number of sample types</strong> before analysis by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/gas-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-gc-ms.html"><strong>GC-MS</strong></a><strong> or </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/liquid-chromatography-mass-spectrometry-lc-ms.html"><strong>LC-MS</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>Thermo Scientific QuEChERS kits</strong> contain <strong>pre-packaged, ready-weighed salts, sorbents, and buffers</strong> to <strong>streamline your workflow</strong> and <strong>minimize the potential for error</strong>. The kits are grouped according to your <strong>analytes of interest</strong>, <strong>sample matrix</strong>, and <strong>preferred QuEChERS method</strong>:</p><ul><li><strong>Original 2003 Method</strong></li><li><strong>AOAC 2007.01 Method</strong></li><li><strong>EN 15662 Method</strong></li><li><strong>NY/T 1380-2007 Method</strong></li></ul><p><strong>Complete packages</strong>—including both <strong>extraction and clean-up kits</strong>—are available. <strong>Extraction-only and cleanup-only kits</strong> are also offered to suit your laboratory’s sample preparation needs. These <strong>pre-packaged kits save time and money</strong>, make QuEChERS procedures <strong>easier and more convenient</strong>, and ensure <strong>quality to yield reproducible results</strong> and <strong>excellent recoveries</strong> for a wide variety of analytes.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_2_1e99f0c81b.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="891" height="640"></p><h3><strong>Typical QuEChERS workflow</strong></h3><div><div><div><div><div><p>As shown in the workflow diagram below, the <strong>QuEChERS method has four basic steps</strong>:</p><ol><li><strong>Homogenize sample</strong> (fruit or vegetable)</li><li><strong>Extract analytes of interest</strong> from a sample using <strong>extraction salts</strong> (pesticide residues, veterinary drugs, and/or mycotoxins)</li><li><strong>Clean-up the resulting supernatant</strong> using <strong>dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE)</strong></li><li><strong>Analyze by GC-MS or LC-MS</strong></li></ol><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_496491ceff.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1170" height="706"></p><div><h3><strong>QuEChERS products</strong></h3></div><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction kits for original 2003 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>original QuEChERS method</strong> (Anastassiades et al, 2003) was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and Michelangelo Anastassiades</strong> in 2003 for the <strong>determination of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables</strong>. The original method was created to <strong>analyze non-base-sensitive compounds</strong> and uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>reduce polar interferences</strong> and <strong>enhance extraction</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. <strong>Three different extraction kits</strong> are available to support the <strong>original 2003 QuEChERS method</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the original 2003 method</strong></h5></div><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction (SPE) on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample; reduces polar interference and enhances extraction</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>AOAC 2007.01 QuEChERS Method</strong> was developed by <strong>Steven J. Lehotay and his co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>acetate buffering at higher concentration</strong> for <strong>greater buffering strength</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>. These <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>AOAC 2007.01 method</strong>.</p><div><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the AOAC 2007.01 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaOAc:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS extraction and clean-up kits for EN 15662 method</strong></h4><p>The <strong>extraction and clean-up products</strong> here support the <strong>EN 15662 method</strong>. <strong>Widely used in Europe</strong>, the EN 15662 method was developed by <strong>Michelangelo Anastassiades and co-workers</strong>, who <strong>modified the original 2003 method</strong> to accommodate the use of <strong>citrate buffering at a relatively low buffering capacity</strong>. This variation uses a <strong>sodium chloride buffer</strong> to <strong>minimize polar interferences</strong> in addition to <strong>sodium citrate dihydrate</strong> and <strong>disodium citrate sesquihydrate buffers</strong>. <strong>Buffering</strong> is an important part of the QuEChERS procedure because it <strong>allows for analysis of pesticides and other residues</strong> that display <strong>pH dependence in their recoveries</strong>, depending on the <strong>sample matrix</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the EN 15662 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Acetonitrile:</strong> Used to perform single-phase extraction on a sample</li><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>NaCl:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes residual water from sample</li><li><strong>Trisodium Citrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>Disodium Citrate Sesquihydrate:</strong> Buffers the sample to stabilize pH</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li><li><strong>GCB:</strong> Graphitized carbon black, removes pigment (<i>not recommended for use with planar pesticides</i>)</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific QuEChERS Sample Preparation Kits" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Qu_E_Ch_ERS_Sample_Preparation_Kits_3_721562526f.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1471" height="488"></p><div><h4><strong>QuEChERS clean-up kit for NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h4></div><div><p>The <strong>NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong> is <strong>recommended by China Ministry of Agriculture</strong> for the <strong>QuEChERS Method sample preparation</strong> of <strong>51 specific pesticide residues</strong> in <strong>fruits and vegetables</strong> with <strong>analysis by GC-MS</strong>.</p><h5><strong>Chemicals used in the NY/T 1380-2007 method</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Anhydrous MgSO₄:</strong> Induces phase separation between water content in sample and acetonitrile layer during liquid-liquid partitioning step; removes remaining water from sample during dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) step</li><li><strong>PSA:</strong> Primary secondary amine, used to remove polar matrix components, citric co-extractives, and free fatty acids, from sample during dSPE step</li><li><strong>C18:</strong> Removes fats, sterols, and other non-polar interferences from sample</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

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