We are pleased to invite you to our upcoming free online webinar on June 11, 2026 focused on one of the most pressing challenges in environmental monitoring and water quality management — PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances).As regulatory frameworks continue to evolve and compliance deadlines approach, laboratories, water utilities, and environmental professionals need robust, reliable, and cutting-edge analytical solutions to stay ahead.<blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/91d97003-fe33-4dca-b80b-160d9f8a5655@485ca04e-6f74-4050-9764-cdb4bfa89c25">Registration HERE</a></blockquote><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ALS_analyzy_PFAS_a9e4a87fbc.jpg" alt="ALS: Advanced PFAS Analytical Services " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ALS_analyzy_PFAS_a9e4a87fbc.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="600" height="336"><h4>🎤 Our Speaker</h4>The webinar will be hosted by Jana Kováčová, Ph.D., PFAS Regional Lead for Continental Europe Environmental Division, who has dedicated the last several years to the field of PFAS analysis and determination in ALS laboratories. Jana is a recognized expert in PFAS environmental analytics and will share practical insights and the latest developments in analytical strategies to help your organization achieve and maintain compliance.<h4>🎯 What You Will Learn</h4><ul><li>Latest regulatory developments and compliance requirements for PFAS in water, including EU Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184 and its implications for water suppliers and laboratories.</li><li>Regulatory updates for surface water and groundwater — what's new and what to expect next.</li><li>Overview of advanced analytical strategies for PFAS detection and quantification in water matrices and how we analyse PFAS samples.</li><li>Key analytical challenges associated with PFAS testing — from ultra-trace detection to matrix interferences and contamination control.</li><li>The critical importance of using tested sampling containers and sample preservation to ensure reliable results.</li><li>Illustrative examples of results from real-world PFAS water analyses.</li><li>How ALS can support your needs with accredited PFAS testing services.</li></ul><h4>👥 Who Should Attend</h4>This webinar is designed for our clients, professionals, laboratory and technical staff, scientists, as well as anyone with an interest in analytical chemistry who wants to better understand the occurrence of these "forever chemicals" in the environment. &nbsp;<h4>💬 Q&amp;A Session</h4>There will be a live Q&amp;A session at the end of the webinar. You are welcome to submit your questions in advance during registration or ask them live on the day.<h4>📅 Additional Webinar Info:</h4><ul><li>Platform: Microsoft Teams (online)</li><li>Time: 10:00 CEST</li><li>Language: English</li><li>Duration: approx. 45 - 60 minutes (incl. Q&amp;A) Extras: If you are unable to attend on the day, please register and we will provide you with the recording of the webinar.</li></ul><h4>🔬 About ALS Environmental</h4>ALS is a global leader in environmental testing and analytical services, providing accredited PFAS analysis to clients across Europe and beyond. Our dedicated PFAS experts help clients navigate the complex regulatory landscape with confidence.<blockquote>For further information, please contact us on: marketing.cz@alsglobal.com</blockquote>We look forward to welcoming you to this important discussion on PFAS compliance in water.

Invitation to the ALS Webinar PFAS in Water 2026: Achieving Compliance through Advanced Analytical Strategies

🎤Jeff Zonderman (Bruker)<h4>Can mass spectrometry work without chromatography?</h4>In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, host David Oliva speaks with Jeff Zonderman of Bruker about how Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) mass spectrometry is enabling rapid sample analysis with little or no chromatography.Traditional LC-MS workflows rely on chromatography, solvent-intensive sample preparation, and complex instrumentation. DART offers a different approach—allowing laboratories to analyze samples directly, reducing solvent use, hazardous waste, and overall cost of ownership. As Jeff explains in this conversation, the technology is gaining traction in drug testing, forensic analysis, clinical diagnostics, and high-throughput screening environments.David and Jeff discuss how DART works, where it fits within modern analytical workflows, and why many laboratories are exploring chromatography-free mass spectrometry to simplify operations and improve speed.<h5>Topics covered in this episode</h5><ul><li>What DART mass spectrometry is and how it works</li><li>When laboratories can eliminate chromatography from workflows</li><li>Reducing solvent consumption and hazardous waste</li><li>Applications in drug testing and forensic analysis</li><li>Opportunities for clinical diagnostics and high-throughput screening</li><li>The future of chromatography-free mass spectrometry</li></ul><h5>About the Podcast</h5>Concentrating on Chromatography is an analytical chemistry podcast featuring conversations with scientists and industry leaders working at the forefront of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and laboratory technology.Hosted by David Oliva, the series explores the real-world workflows, innovations, and challenges shaping modern analytical laboratories.<h5>Keywords</h5><ul><li>DART mass spectrometry</li><li>mass spectrometry without chromatography</li><li>LC-MS alternative</li><li>analytical chemistry podcast</li><li>drug testing mass spectrometry</li><li>forensic mass spectrometry</li><li>Bruker mass spectrometry</li></ul><h3>Video Transcription</h3>In this episode, Jeff Zonderman discusses how mass spectrometry workflows are evolving beyond traditional chromatography-based approaches. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in mass spectrometry and separation science, he explains how technologies such as DART (Direct Analysis in Real Time), ion mobility, and MALDI are enabling faster, simpler, and more sustainable analytical workflows. The conversation explores applications ranging from clinical testing and toxicology to environmental analysis and forensic science.<h4>Chromatography: Essential but Not Always Necessary</h4>Jeff explains that chromatography has played a critical role in the success of modern mass spectrometry. The introduction of electrospray ionization and LC-MS transformed fields such as toxicology, clinical diagnostics, food safety, environmental analysis, proteomics, and metabolomics.However, chromatography also introduces complexity, cost, maintenance requirements, solvent consumption, and workflow bottlenecks. While it remains indispensable for highly complex separations, Jeff argues that many routine assays may no longer require chromatographic separation.According to Jeff, chromatography should be viewed as a powerful tool rather than a universal requirement. Emerging technologies now allow laboratories to perform certain analyses more efficiently without relying on LC or GC systems.<h4>Why DART Was Developed</h4>As former CEO of IonSense, Jeff focused on solving three key challenges routinely faced by analytical laboratories:<ul><li>Cost per sample</li><li>Speed of analysis</li><li>Ease of operation and robustness</li></ul>Traditional LC-MS workflows often require:<ul><li>Expensive consumables</li><li>Large solvent volumes</li><li>Waste disposal infrastructure</li><li>Specialized chromatography expertise</li></ul>DART technology was developed to reduce these burdens while maintaining analytical performance. The goal was not simply to generate high-quality data, but to create workflows that are faster, more affordable, and easier to operate in high-throughput environments.<h4>Sustainability Benefits of Chromatography-Free Workflows</h4>One of the most significant advantages Jeff highlights is sustainability.High-throughput LC-MS laboratories may operate dozens or even hundreds of instruments, each consuming large volumes of organic solvents such as acetonitrile and generating substantial hazardous waste.Chromatography-free workflows can dramatically reduce:<ul><li>Solvent consumption</li><li>Hazardous waste generation</li><li>Laboratory operating costs</li><li>Environmental impact</li></ul>Jeff believes these benefits will become increasingly important as laboratories place greater emphasis on green laboratory initiatives and sustainable analytical practices.<h4>The Role of Ion Mobility</h4>While DART removes the need for chromatography in many applications, Jeff emphasizes that alternative separation technologies remain important.He identifies ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) as one of the most exciting developments in mass spectrometry today. Ion mobility offers:<ul><li>Rapid gas-phase separations</li><li>High reproducibility</li><li>Additional molecular resolution</li><li>Enhanced confidence in compound identification</li></ul>Bruker's TIMS (Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry) technology represents one example of how ion mobility can complement both chromatography-free and chromatography-based workflows.<h4>Where Chromatography Still Dominates</h4>Jeff is careful not to suggest that chromatography will disappear.Applications involving:<ul><li>Hundreds of analytes</li><li>Extremely complex matrices</li><li>Comprehensive metabolomics studies</li><li>Large-scale pesticide screening</li></ul>still require chromatographic separation.For example, multi-residue food testing involving hundreds of pesticides or metabolomics studies targeting thousands of compounds remain heavily dependent on LC-MS and GC-MS workflows.In these situations, chromatography continues to provide unmatched separation power. DART is best suited to targeted, routine, and high-throughput analyses where the analytical targets are already known.<h4>Common Misconceptions About DART</h4>One of the most common misconceptions is that chromatography is always required to eliminate matrix effects.Jeff explains that DART workflows still utilize sample preparation when necessary. However, many users incorrectly assume that chromatography is the only way to achieve acceptable selectivity and robustness.DART can leverage:<ul><li>Simplified sample preparation</li><li>Mass spectrometric selectivity</li><li>Thermally controlled desorption</li><li>Alternative separation mechanisms</li></ul>to achieve reliable analytical performance without conventional LC or GC systems.He stresses that the goal is not to eliminate sample preparation entirely, but to eliminate unnecessary chromatographic complexity.<h4>Forensic Science: Addressing Growing Backlogs</h4>One of the most compelling applications discussed is forensic drug analysis.Forensic laboratories worldwide face growing backlogs caused by:<ul><li>Rising drug seizure volumes</li><li>Increasing numbers of novel psychoactive substances (NPS)</li><li>Limited laboratory resources</li></ul>Jeff highlights examples where DART has been adopted to dramatically increase throughput.Instead of developing new chromatographic methods for every emerging substance, analysts can rapidly screen seized materials using DART-MS workflows.Organizations such as NIST have played a major role in validating and promoting DART-based forensic applications, helping laboratories process evidence faster while maintaining confidence in results.<h4>Bringing Mass Spectrometry into the Field</h4>Another exciting development is the use of DART in mobile laboratories.Traditional LC-MS systems are poorly suited to field deployment due to:<ul><li>Solvent requirements</li><li>Waste management needs</li><li>Instrument complexity</li><li>Chromatographic equilibration times</li></ul>DART enables portable workflows that can bring laboratory-quality mass spectrometry closer to the point of need.Potential applications include:<ul><li>Drug seizure investigations</li><li>Environmental monitoring</li><li>Food testing</li><li>Emergency response</li></ul>Jeff sees field-deployable mass spectrometry as one of the next major growth areas for the technology.<h4>Clinical Applications and Drug Testing</h4>Jeff identifies clinical testing as one of the most important future markets for DART.Bruker has invested heavily in this area through acquisitions such as:<ul><li>Recipe</li><li>Pinpoint</li></ul>The company's strategy involves converting established LC-MS clinical assays into DART-based workflows while maintaining analytical performance.Particular focus areas include:<ul><li>Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM)</li><li>Drugs of abuse testing</li><li>Clinical toxicology</li><li>Vitamin analysis</li></ul>The objective is to provide faster, more economical workflows that remain compatible with regulatory requirements and routine laboratory operation.<h4>Kits and Complete Workflow Solutions</h4>Jeff emphasizes that technology alone is not enough.Modern laboratories increasingly prefer complete workflow solutions rather than assembling systems from multiple vendors.Bruker's approach combines:<ul><li>Instrumentation</li><li>Software</li><li>Reagents</li><li>Sample preparation materials</li><li>Validated methods</li></ul>into integrated solutions designed for routine laboratories.This shift toward complete kits and workflow packages simplifies implementation and improves consistency across laboratories.<h4>Looking Ahead</h4>Looking five years into the future, Jeff expects the largest impact of DART technology to occur in:<ul><li>Clinical diagnostics</li><li>Drug testing</li><li>Forensic toxicology</li><li>Environmental contaminant monitoring</li></ul>He believes growing concerns surrounding:<ul><li>PFAS contamination</li><li>Microplastics</li><li>Emerging drugs</li><li>Public health monitoring</li></ul>will continue driving demand for rapid, cost-effective analytical solutions.Combined with advances in ion mobility and automation, chromatography-free mass spectrometry has the potential to significantly expand the reach of mass spectrometry into new applications, laboratories, and field environments.<h4>Key Takeaways</h4><ul><li>Chromatography remains essential for highly complex separations but is not required for every analytical workflow.</li><li>DART enables faster, lower-cost, and more sustainable mass spectrometry workflows.</li><li>Forensic laboratories are using DART to address growing drug analysis backlogs.</li><li>Ion mobility is emerging as a powerful complementary separation technology.</li><li>Chromatography-free workflows can significantly reduce solvent consumption and hazardous waste.</li><li>Clinical testing, environmental analysis, and field-deployable mass spectrometry are expected to be major growth areas in the coming years.</li><li>The future of routine mass spectrometry lies not only in instrumentation, but in complete workflow solutions that simplify laboratory operations.</li></ul><blockquote>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.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>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!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

Mass Spec Without Chromatography? How DART is Changing Clinical & Forensic Testing

<div><div><div>The IOCB Foundation is the new name of the established IOCB Tech Foundation, which was founded by IOCB Tech, a company focused on translating scientific knowledge into practical applications. The foundation’s new name and brand reflect a closer connection with IOCB Prague, from which IOCB Tech emerged. The foundation is thus embarking on a new phase in which it aims to become a key philanthropic player in the field of technology transfer in the Czech Republic.</div></div><div>The foundation was established in 2022 to support the development of science, the practical application of scientific knowledge, and the popularization of science, using revenues from its parent company, IOCB Tech. Over the four years of its existence, it has supported dozens of scientific and educational institutions, projects, initiatives, and individual scientists, distributing approximately EUR 3.5 million among them.The foundation will continue its mission under its new name. However, it will focus even more on supporting the transfer of knowledge into practical applications and will expand its own fundraising activities, with the goal of securing additional funding for new projects.</div><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Nadacni_fond_IOCB_Tech_se_meni_na_IOCB_Foundation_a_zahajuje_novou_ambiciozni_etapu_sve_existence_2_72531f83bf.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: The IOCB Tech Foundation is rebranding as the IOCB Foundation and embarking on a new, ambitious chapter: Milan Prášil, IOCB Tech Director." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Nadacni_fond_IOCB_Tech_se_meni_na_IOCB_Foundation_a_zahajuje_novou_ambiciozni_etapu_sve_existence_2_72531f83bf.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="1001">“We are pleased to have helped launch the foundation and to have supported meaningful projects worth several million euros during its initial phase. Now comes a phase that is naturally close to our hearts at IOCB Tech: we want to focus even more on supporting technology transfer while also opening the foundation to new partnerships with other donors. We believe that combining expertise in technology transfer, a strong scientific background, and philanthropy will help turn scientists’ good ideas into useful results more quickly,” says IOCB Tech Director Milan Prášil.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Nadacni_fond_IOCB_Tech_se_meni_na_IOCB_Foundation_a_zahajuje_novou_ambiciozni_etapu_sve_existence_3_2819bc548c.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Vladimír Šigut: The IOCB Tech Foundation is rebranding as the IOCB Foundation and embarking on a new, ambitious chapter: Linda Štucbartová, Chair of the IOCB Foundation Board." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Nadacni_fond_IOCB_Tech_se_meni_na_IOCB_Foundation_a_zahajuje_novou_ambiciozni_etapu_sve_existence_3_2819bc548c.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1800" height="1350"><div><div><div><div>“Ambitious startups based on cutting-edge research are emerging in the Czech Republic, though often in spite of various obstacles. In this regard, Czech science has not yet fully realized its potential, and that is precisely what the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://iocbfoundation.cz/en/">IOCB Foundation</a> aims to change. We want to systematically support the development of the entire technology transfer field, including by strengthening ties with the business community and expanding funding opportunities,” adds Linda Štucbartová, Chair of the Foundation’s Board, outlining the Foundation’s new goals, and continues:“We need to create an environment in which scientists, startup founders, and investors can be confident that cutting-edge research in the Czech Republic has a real chance of growing into globally successful technology companies. What matters is transforming the entire ecosystem and securing stronger involvement from the private sector. This will determine whether we merely adopt innovations or create them ourselves and export them to the world.”The Foundation will also collaborate more closely with IOCB Prague. As the Foundation’s new institutional patron, IOCB Prague will provide expert support in the areas of scientific development and raising public awareness of the importance of scientific knowledge for society.</div></div></div><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Nadacni_fond_IOCB_Tech_se_meni_na_IOCB_Foundation_a_zahajuje_novou_ambiciozni_etapu_sve_existence_4_1635b21b22.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: The IOCB Tech Foundation is rebranding as the IOCB Foundation and embarking on a new, ambitious chapter: Prof. Jan Konvalinka, Director of IOCB Prague." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Nadacni_fond_IOCB_Tech_se_meni_na_IOCB_Foundation_a_zahajuje_novou_ambiciozni_etapu_sve_existence_4_1635b21b22.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1305" height="870">“The IOCB Foundation has set itself a new ambition: to support technology transfer in a more systematic way. However, this is not possible without high-quality science, good conditions for research work, and public trust in the benefits of scientific knowledge. As its patron, IOCB Prague will therefore provide long-term, strategic support to the Foundation in fulfilling this vision, as it sees these goals as an integral part of the mission of a modern research institution,” says Prof. Jan Konvalinka, Director of the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry.<blockquote><h5>Webové stránky&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://iocbfoundation.cz/">IOCB Foundation</a></h5></blockquote></div></div>

The IOCB Tech Foundation is rebranding as the IOCB Foundation and embarking on a new, ambitious chapter

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For more than 40 years, ALS has provided testing and technical solutions to clients all over the world in a wide range of industries. We have built our global reputation by embracing the latest technologies and innovative methodologies to deliver high quality testing services to clients. ALS is able to leverage a multifaceted international team while remaining agile enough to provide local expertise and personalized solutions to every one of our clients.

ALS Czech Republic

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

Quantitative analysis of proteins (Bioanalytic) 

In our laboratory, proteomic analyses, including quantitative analysis of proteins, are performed by HPLC-MS or HPLC-MS/MS methods on a ZenoTOF 7600 high-resolution mass spectrometer (SCIEX).

Quantitative analysis of proteins is important in many industries and applications. Proteins include a diverse group of compounds that participate in virtually every biological process. Proteins are building blocks, hormones, transport molecules, cell receptors, cell growth and differentiation factors. Because of this, the analysis of protein interactions is crucial in drug design and production.Proteins are macromolecules - the basis of their structure are polypeptide chains containing from 100 to more than 10000 amino acids (10 - 100 kDa). Proteins are found in simple and complex forms. Complex proteins contain a non-protein component (sugar, lipids, metal ions or dyes) in their structure.In our laboratory, proteomic analyses, including quantitative analysis of proteins, are performed by HPLC-MS or HPLC-MS/MS methods on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=52&amp;search=ZenoTOF+7600">ZenoTOF 7600</a> high-resolution mass spectrometer (SCIEX). We process the obtained results using Sciex OS, Spectronaut, Skyline software.<h4>MS vs MS/MS</h4>Quantitative analysis of intact protein (whole protein in intact form) leads to the concentration (determined from a prepared curve from a standard (with or without matrix) and confirmation of the identification by superimposing (on a mirrored basis) the MS spectrum of the protein determined in the sample to the MS spectrum of the standard. For your needs, we can generate a list of protein-structured compounds (impurities) that were identified in the sample and determine the ratio of their signal area to the signal area of the analyzed protein.The result of proteomic quantitative peptide analysis allows precise and much more sensitive determination of protein concentration. The analysis is based on MS/MS data obtained for peptides obtained by digestion with proteolytic enzymes. The reported result consists of the concentration of the protein under study and confirmation of its presence based on the determined amino acid sequence. For such analyses, it is recommended to add standards internal standards.<blockquote>Our offer:<ul><li>For proteins and peptides with low masses - intact analysis with MS detection;</li><li>Proteins with masses &gt;20kDa require optimization of the digestion method and MS/MS detection. This results in specific signals from the analyzed protein in the mixture/matrix;</li><li>From complex matrices (including serum, cell culture, fungal suspension), sample analysis involves several steps:&nbsp;<ul><li>Sample purification;</li><li>Digestion to obtain unique peptides to distinguish the analyzed proteins from other proteins in the sample;</li><li>Sample preparation requires appropriate method optimization and validation (let's set validation criteria individually);</li></ul></li><li>Reported quantitative result includes confirmation of the presence of the protein in native form or a peptide derived from it (usually confirmation includes at least two peptide sequences);</li><li>Statistical analysis using tools: MarkerView (PCA), GraphPad Prism, Trends, Sciex OS.</li></ul>To optimize and validate the method, it is necessary to provide a standard, in the case of proteins with high masses - it is recommended to add an internal standard.See also:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labexperts.com.pl/service/identyfikacja-bialek/">Protein identification</a>,</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1296">Analysis and characterization of monoclonal antibodies</a>.</li></ul></blockquote><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Quantitative_analysis_of_proteins_1_de494646f2.jpg" alt="Bioanalytic: Quantitative analysis of proteins." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Quantitative_analysis_of_proteins_1_de494646f2.jpg 200w," sizes="100vw" width="777" height="606">

Characteristics of monoclonal antibodies (Bioanalytic)

At LabExperts, proteomic analyses are performed on a ZenoTOF 7600 high-resolution LC-MS/MS system (SCIEX). For MS/MS analyses, we use Collision induced dissociation (CID) and Electron-Activated Dissociation (EAD) fragmentation.

Antibodies are molecules made up of 4 polypeptide chains: two heavy (H - high-chain) linked to each other by a specific type of chemical bond - a disulfide bridge, and two light (L - light-chain) linked by an identical bond to the heavy chains. Monoclonal antibodies (mABs) are used in various forms - as free molecules, in the form of a drug-antibody combination, and in the form of an immunoconjugate, a drug-antibody-biopolymer combination.Their main use is in highly specific targeted therapy for cancer, cardiovascular, autoimmune and nervous system diseases. They are also used in the treatment of osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease or transplantation. The range of applications of monoclonal antibodies is systematically expanded. The introduction of a new antibody to the market requires complex product characterization, which involves numerous proteomic analyses, which are performed by LC-MS/MS techniques, among others.<h4>LC-MS/MS</h4>The characterization of monoclonal antibodies involves many aspects, including, but not limited to, a suite of analyses related to confirmation of the structure, chain sequence and degree of modification of the antibody. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are chemical changes that occur after the translation process. These changes generally result in an increase in the immunogenicity of the drug. For this reason, it is essential to monitor modifications as critical quality attributes (CQAs) during both the production and storage of the drug. To ensure monitoring of CQA points, the primary structure of the protein is characterized based on peptide mapping (peptide mapping) analysis. The protein under study is subjected to proteolytic digestion using enzymes such as trypsin, chymotrypsin, Lys-C, Glu-C. As a result of various proteolytic enzymes, a wide range of peptides is obtained. Ultimately, coverage of the entire sequence of the protein under study is obtained.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1536/947;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Characteristics_of_monoclonal_antibodies_3_d94fa1623b.jpg" alt="Bioanalytic: Characteristics of monoclonal antibodies." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Characteristics_of_monoclonal_antibodies_3_d94fa1623b.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="947"></figure>At LabExperts, proteomic analyses are performed on a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=52&amp;search=ZenoTOF+7600">ZenoTOF 7600</a> high-resolution LC-MS/MS system (SCIEX). For MS/MS analyses, we use Collision induced dissociation (CID) and Electron-Activated Dissociation (EAD) fragmentation. This provides us with data for unambiguous identification of protein-building amino acids. We process the results using Sciex OS, Skyline and Spectronaut software.<blockquote>We perform:<ul><li>Whole protein analyses - Intact - to determine the exact mass and confirm the theoretical mass;</li><li>N-glycosylation profile determination (based on MS spectrum reconstruction):<ul><li>Glycosylated form;</li><li>Deglycosylated;</li><li>Glycosylated with reduced disulfide bridges;</li><li>Deglycosylated with reduced disulfide bridges.</li></ul></li><li>Peptide maps:<ul><li>Protein digestion with various proteases so that sequence coverage is close to 100%<ul><li>Analysis of PTMs:</li><li>Location of modifications</li></ul></li><li>[%] of modifications compared to the unmodified sequence</li></ul></li><li>TiPOS testing - (technical proof of similarity) - technical confirmation of the similarity of the protein synthesized by the customer (from several LOTs) with the target protein (provided as a template).</li></ul>In order to maintain the highest possible analytical standards, we perform monoclonal antibody analyses under the regime of an internally developed and implemented laboratory quality system based on GLP principles.See also our other proteomics services: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labexperts.com.pl/service/identyfikacja-bialek/">Protein identification</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1294">Protein quantitative analysis</a></blockquote><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Characteristics_of_monoclonal_antibodies_2_cb93143fe6.jpg" alt="Bioanalytic: Bioanalytic Characteristics of monoclonal antibodies." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Characteristics_of_monoclonal_antibodies_2_cb93143fe6.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="908"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Characteristics_of_monoclonal_antibodies_1_0e8ab7cdfa.jpg" alt="Bioanalytic: Bioanalytic Characteristics of monoclonal antibodies." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bioanalytic_Bioanalytic_Characteristics_of_monoclonal_antibodies_1_0e8ab7cdfa.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="858">

Identification of the proteins (Bioanalytic)

We perform proteomic analyses on a state-of-the-art high-resolution ZenoTOF 7600 (SCIEX), in which the Zeno ion trap and EAD (Electron-Activated Dissociation) technology together make a powerful combination.

Protein identification is based on experimental measurement of peptide molecular weights and matching the amino acid sequence of the protein under study with protein sequences deposited in libraries (databases). Two approaches are most commonly used in proteomic studies: top-down and bottom-up. The top-down method involves analyzing full protein sequences. Bottom-up analyses, on the other hand, use digestion of proteins with proteolytic enzymes. The peptides obtained by digestion are analyzed using a mass spectrometer. Each analysis leads to a comparison of experimental data with data obtained by theoretical digestion of proteins described in the database.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bioanalytic_Identification_of_the_proteins_Bioanalytic_2_6231b73f0d.jpg" alt="Bioanalytic: Identification of the proteins." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bioanalytic_Identification_of_the_proteins_Bioanalytic_2_6231b73f0d.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="766"><h4>LC-MS/MS</h4>Tandem mass spectrometers are commonly used to determine protein sequences. They allow ion selection of pseudomolecular peptides and then fragmentation and measurement of the masses of the resulting fragments. Fragmentation using collision induced dissociation(CID ) is an invaluable tool in targeted and untargeted MS/MS analysis of small molecules. It is important to note that in proteomic analysis, data obtained using the aforementioned fragmentation method may leave gaps. For example, spectra obtained by CID fragmentation do not allow unambiguous differentiation of some amino acids: leucine from isoleucine (identical molar masses and CID fragmentation) and lysine from glutamine (very similar masses). For this reason, we perform proteomic analyses on a state-of-the-art high-resolution <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?manufacturerItems=52&amp;search=+ZenoTOF+7600">ZenoTOF 7600</a> (SCIEX), in which the Zeno ion trap and EAD (Electron-Activated Dissociation) technology together make a powerful combination. It enables the creation of unique fragments to differentiate problematic amino acids and increase the sensitivity and specificity of the analysis.<blockquote>We perform analyses of:<ul><li>samples from solution;</li><li>samples from a gel;</li><li>samples from a complex matrix (by prior arrangement);</li><li>samples from lyophilizer;</li><li>samples previously prepared by the client.</li></ul>Qualitative analysis of proteins includes:<ul><li>To confirm the presence of a protein, the sample is subjected to digestion and the result obtained from experimental data is compared with theoretical data;</li><li>Comparison of experimental data on the masses of peptides included in the analyzed protein with the protein sequences described in the database;</li><li>Analysis and identification of the protein mixture;</li><li>Identification of post translational modifications (PTMs) (we use the tools: Skyline, Spectronaut).</li><li>Reporting of the result including, but not limited to, confirmation of the coverage of the protein sequence obtained in the test sample with the theoretical protein and the list of modified peptides, location and % of modifications.</li></ul>Comparative analyses include:<ul><li>Determining the composition of mixtures;</li><li>Comparison and profiling of sample series - protein identification and trend analysis.</li></ul>Our offer also includes:<ul><li>Support in the planning and execution of studies (the scope is determined individually);</li><li>Assistance in the development of extraction methods from complex matrices - biological fluids, plant tissue, animal tissues (the scope is determined individually);</li><li>Statistical analysis using tools: MarkerView (PCA), GraphPad Prism, Trends, Sciex OS;</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1294">Quantitative analysis of proteins</a>;</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1296">Analysis and characterization of monoclonal antibodies</a>.</li></ul></blockquote><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Bioanalytic_Identification_of_the_proteins_Bioanalytic_1_97cf8c94b3.jpg" alt="Bioanalytic: Identification of the proteins." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Bioanalytic_Identification_of_the_proteins_Bioanalytic_1_97cf8c94b3.jpg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="2000">

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