Interrogating cellular hierarchies using ultra-sensitive proteomics

The presentation delves into the advancements and challenges in single-cell proteomics, emphasizing its potential to provide biologically meaningful insights. Valdemaras highlights the evolution of proteomics, moving from discussing technical aspects like gradient lengths and acquisition schemes to showcasing actual biological data. The focus is on the reliability of measurements from ultra-low input samples, using advanced mass spectrometry techniques such as the Orbitrap Astral. 

The presentation discusses the technical stability and quantitative accuracy of these measurements, demonstrating that single-cell proteomics can capture relevant biological information. Examples include generating a proteome map of hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cell populations, and identifying transcription factors. Valdemaras also addresses ethical considerations, such as reducing the number of animals used in experiments.  

Learning points:

• Advancements in Single-Cell Proteomics: Highlights the evolution of proteomics techniques to reliably measure ultra-low input samples, providing biologically meaningful insights. 
• Technical Stability and Accuracy: Emphasizes the importance of advanced mass spectrometry techniques, such as the Orbitrap Astral, in achieving stable and accurate quantitative measurements in single-cell proteomics. 
• Ethical Considerations: Discusses the ethical benefits of single-cell proteomics, including the potential to reduce the number of animals used in experiments. 

Who should attend?

• Proteomics Researchers: Scientists interested in the latest advancements and techniques in single-cell proteomics. 
• Mass Spectrometry Experts: Professionals looking to enhance their knowledge of cutting-edge mass spectrometry technologies like the Orbitrap Astral. 
• Ethics Committees and Regulatory Bodies: Individuals focused on the ethical implications of research methodologies, particularly in reducing animal usage in experiments. 

Presenter: Lukas Najdekr, Ph.D. (Senior researcher, IMTM Olomouc)

Lukas' research focuses on metabolomics. After studying biochemistry, he worked at University Hospital Olomouc, where his PhD was on applying untargeted metabolomics in clinical diagnostics. Internships at the University of Barcelona and Thermo Fisher Scientific provided him with skills in cell cultures, molecular biology, and Orbitrap-based mass spectrometry. He believes metabolomics has great potential as a universal diagnostic tool in personalized medicine, evident in innovations like the iKnife and improved newborn screening.