Scientists at IOCB Prague are uncovering new details of gene transcription. They have identified a previously unknown molecular mechanism by which the transcription of genetic information from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into ribonucleic acid (RNA) can be initiated. The researchers focused on a specific class of molecules known as alarmones, which are found in cells across a wide range of organisms and whose levels often increase under conditions of cellular stress. The results were published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature Chemical Biology.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Hana Cahová, head of the Chemical Biology of Nucleic Acids research group." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"><div>Molecules of ribonucleic acid can carry a variety of chemical modifications at one end, known as caps. In eukaryotic organisms, including human cells, the best-known cap plays an important role in RNA stability and in regulating its subsequent fate. In recent years, however, it has become clear that alternative, non-canonical RNA caps also exist, although their formation and the mechanisms by which they are attached to RNA remain only partially understood. These include alarmone caps, formed by dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules, that protect cellular RNA at moments when the cell is under threat.In their study, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cahova.group.uochb.cz/en">Dr. Hana Cahová</a> and colleagues examined bacterial RNA polymerase and investigated how this enzyme can initiate transcription using dinucleoside polyphosphates (NpNs) instead of the standard RNA building blocks. For the first time, the scientists described, at the atomic level, how RNA bearing an alarmone cap can be generated directly at the initiation of gene transcription. They also observed that NpNs bind through a different type of base pairing than is typically observed.The work was significantly shaped by Valentina Serianni from Hana Cahová’s team, who demonstrated the ability of dinucleoside polyphosphates to initiate gene transcription, and by Jana Škerlová, who focused on the structural analysis of RNA polymerase. Using cryogenic electron microscopy data, she showed how dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules bind within the active site of RNA polymerase – that is, the core of the enzyme where genetic information is transcribed. Together, their findings help to elucidate the processes that accompany the transcription of genetic information from DNA to RNA.Hana Cahová adds: “We’re describing something that truly occurs in cells and that we’re now able to observe directly at the level of individual molecules. This allows us to answer fundamental questions about cellular processes, such as how cells adapt to stress. RNA plays a central role in this, as it carries the cascade of information underlying any cellular response – for example, to threatening conditions caused by nutrient deprivation or temperature shock.”<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Tomáš Kouba, head of the Cryogenic Electron Microscopy core facility." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"><div>Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) was central to the project. This part of the work was led by Dr. Tomáš Kouba, one of the authors of the study. “Cryogenic electron microscopy allows us to freeze biological molecules in a state very close to their natural form and then determine their three-dimensional structure. This makes it possible to look directly into the active centers of enzymes and observe their function down to the atomic level,” he explains.Last year, IOCB Prague opened a new <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cryoem.group.uochb.cz/en">cryo-EM center</a> that is unique within the Czech research environment. State-of-the-art cryogenic electron microscopes are housed in a specially designed building and enable the study of biological processes with exceptional structural precision.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: This work shows how NpnNs initiate bacterial transcription. Cryo-EM reveals how nucleobases pair with the template: one in canonical and one in reverse Watson–Crick mode, providing a structural basis for their function as non-canonical RNA caps." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1077"><blockquote><h4>The Original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41589-025-02134-5">Molecular insight into 5′ RNA capping with NpnNs by bacterial RNA polymerase</a></h4>Valentina M. Serianni, Jana Škerlová, Anna Knopp Dubánková, Anton Škríba, Hana Šváchová, Tereza Vučková, Anatolij Filimoněnko, Milan Fábry, Pavlína Řezáčová, Tomáš Kouba &amp; Hana Cahova&nbsp;Nat. Chem. Biol. 21 (2026)<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>RNA capped with dinucleoside polyphosphates has been discovered in bacteria and eukaryotes only recently. The likely mechanism of this specific capping involves direct incorporation of dinucleoside polyphosphates by RNA polymerase as noncanonical initiating nucleotides. However, how these compounds bind into the active site of RNA polymerase during transcription initiation is unknown. Here, we explored transcription initiation in vitro, using a series of DNA templates in combination with dinucleoside polyphosphates and model RNA polymerase from Thermus thermophilus. We observed that the transcription start site can vary on the basis of the compatibility of the specific template and dinucleoside polyphosphate. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of transcription initiation complexes with dinucleoside polyphosphates revealed that both nucleobase moieties can pair with the DNA template. The first encoded nucleotide pairs in a canonical Watson–Crick manner, whereas the second nucleobase pairs noncanonically in a reverse Watson–Crick manner. Our work provides a structural explanation of how dinucleoside polyphosphates initiate RNA transcription.</div></div>

Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription

Food adulteration is a phenomenon with a long history that has gained increasing importance in recent years due to the globalization of food supply chains and strong economic pressures. Whether it involves diluting olive oil with cheaper oils, adding sugar to honey, or the hidden use of substitutes in protein supplements, the result is a loss of consumer trust and, in some cases, a potential risk to health. Analytical chemistry plays a key role in this area by providing methods and technologies capable of identifying and quantifying target compounds as well as unwanted impurities in a wide range of food matrices.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Praha_Falsovani_potravin_a_jak_ho_odhali_analyticka_chemie_6912db5492.jpg" alt="Watrex: Food Adulteration and How It Is Revealed by Analytical Chemistry" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Praha_Falsovani_potravin_a_jak_ho_odhali_analyticka_chemie_6912db5492.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="900"><h4>The Role of Chromatography in Forensic Food Analysis</h4>Chromatography, particularly liquid chromatography (HPLC), is one of the most effective analytical tools for separating complex mixtures of molecules. It enables:<ul><li>qualitative identification of individual components in a sample,</li><li>quantitative determination of their concentrations,</li><li>detection of impurities and unexpected components that may indicate adulteration.</li></ul>In practice, HPLC is often combined with various types of detectors (UV/VIS, DAD, refractive index detectors) or with other techniques (e.g., mass spectrometry) to increase selectivity and sensitivity.<h4>Isocratic vs. Gradient Elution</h4>In the analysis of food samples, chromatographic methods are selected according to the analytical goal:<ul><li>Isocratic HPLC uses a constant mobile phase composition throughout the analysis. It is simple, robust, and ideal for routine determinations of well-defined target analytes (e.g., sugars or vitamins).</li><li>Gradient HPLC changes the mobile phase composition during separation, enabling better resolution of complex mixtures with a wide range of polarities (e.g., peptides or phenolic compounds).</li></ul>Gradient methods are particularly useful when analytes have very different properties and high separation efficiency is required.<h4>Watrex Praha and the Contribution of Modern Systems to Food Analysis</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky_HPLCsystemy">Watrex Praha, s.r.o.</a> is one of the leading Czech manufacturers and distributors of liquid chromatography systems and instruments, with a long tradition dating back to 1990. The company has successfully transformed from a distributor into a manufacturer of its own HPLC and related technologies, focusing on modular, robust systems suitable even for demanding analytical tasks.Their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?manufacturerItems=93&amp;search=streamline">Streamline™ product line</a> includes several HPLC system concepts suitable for food analysis:<ul><li>Isocratic HPLC system – a simple yet precise configuration with a single pump, column thermostat, and UV/VIS detector; suitable for routine determination of known analytes (e.g., basic carbohydrates, food additives).</li><li>Binary gradient HPLC system – equipped with two pumps enabling mobile phase gradient formation, which enhances separation performance for complex mixtures (e.g., phenolic profiles of wine, components of aromatic extracts).</li><li>GPC/SEC system (Gel Permeation / Size Exclusion Chromatography) – a specialized solution for the determination of macromolecules and polymers, also relevant for the analysis of high-molecular-weight components in foods (e.g., polysaccharides).</li></ul><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_catalog_2024_ba97395f92.pdf">Product catalogue HERE</a></blockquote>Thanks to the modular nature of these systems, analysts can easily adapt the configuration to a specific analytical problem, from simple routine analyses to complex characterization of food samples.<h4>Practical Examples of Adulteration Revealed by HPLC</h4><ul><li>Detection of olive oil dilution: HPLC can separate and quantify characteristic triacylglycerols and fatty acids; unusual patterns indicate the presence of cheaper oils.</li><li>Estimation of sugar addition in honey: Isocratic HPLC with a refractive index detector can determine sugar profiles (glucose, fructose, sucrose), revealing dilution or the addition of sugar syrups.</li><li>Identification of aromatic adulterants in wine: Gradient HPLC with a PDA detector can reveal phenolic and aromatic profiles that are altered by the addition of synthetic compounds.</li></ul><h4>Conclusion</h4>Food adulteration remains a current issue that requires reliable and sensitive analytical methods. Liquid chromatography, and in particular modern HPLC systems, represent one of the most powerful tools for detecting unwanted additives, impurities, and unexpected components in complex food samples. Manufacturers such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky_HPLCsystemy">Watrex Praha</a> provide flexible chromatographic platforms covering a wide range of analytical tasks from simple isocratic to advanced gradient and GPC/SEC applications thereby supporting analysts in ensuring food quality and consumer protection.<blockquote>Did you find this article interesting? Follow <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky_HPLCsystemy">Watrex Praha</a> on their social media (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/watrex/?viewAsMember=true">LinkedIn</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.facebook.com/WatrexPrague">Facebook</a>) for more engaging topics.</blockquote>

Food Adulteration and How It Is Revealed by Analytical Chemistry

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Subhoja Chakraborty from the University of Central Florida, whose cutting-edge research targets the global challenge of malaria drug resistance. Dr. Chakraborty shares her journey from structure-based drug design during her PhD to her recent collaborative work repurposing human kinase inhibitors as rapid, selective antimalarials against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains.<h4>In this episode, you'll learn:</h4><ul><li>How structure-guided approaches reveal potential drug targets, including cysteine proteases like falcipain-2, and kinases implicated in malaria's complex life cycle.</li><li>The power of repurposing kinase inhibitors originally developed for cancer and other diseases, focusing on compound 12, which blocks hemozoin formation and protein kinase 6—key steps in parasite survival.</li><li>Lab techniques such as affinity, gel filtration, and size exclusion chromatography for recombinant protein purification—and how troubleshooting is crucial for high-yield, stable complexes.</li><li>Advances in mass spectrometry for characterizing protein interactions, validating drug targets, and mapping molecular pathways pivotal to malaria therapeutics.</li><li>Tips and lessons for new researchers facing the challenges of sample preparation, complex protocols, and working as part of a collaborative team.</li></ul>Dr. Chakraborty’s insights bridge the gap between basic science and translational drug discovery, offering hope for more effective, targeted malaria treatments in a world where resistance to frontline therapies threatens millions.<h4>Referenced Papers:</h4><ul><li>"Plasmodium falciparum protein kinase 6 and hemozoin formation are inhibited by a type II human kinase inhibitor exhibiting antimalarial activity" (Cell Chemical Biology, 2025)</li><li>"New insights of falcipain 2 structure from Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain" (BBRC, 2022)</li><li>"Structure-Based Optimization of Protease−Inhibitor Interactions to Enhance Specificity of Human Stefin‑A against Falcipain‑2 from the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 Strain" (Biochemistry, 2023)</li></ul>If you’re a student, scientist, or simply passionate about advances in infectious disease research, this episode offers actionable insights, inspiring advice, and a front-row seat to innovation in combating malaria.<h3>Video Transcription</h3><h4>From Structural Biology to Drug Discovery: Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry in Malaria Research</h4><h5>Introduction</h5>In this discussion, Subhoja shares insights into her research journey, focusing on malaria drug discovery and the role of modern analytical techniques in biological and biomedical research. The conversation is aimed primarily at undergraduate students and early-career researchers interested in chemistry, biotechnology, and life sciences.<h5>Research Focus: Malaria Drug Discovery and Kinase Targets</h5>Subhoja is currently involved in malaria drug discovery research at the University of Central Florida, where she has been working since beginning her postdoctoral position two years ago. Her earlier PhD research focused on structure-based drug design in malaria, using a combination of in silico approaches, recombinant protein expression, and X-ray crystallography to determine precise three-dimensional structures of target proteins and their inhibitors.This structural perspective provided a foundation for her current work, which centers on drug discovery through compound screening and repurposing. A recent publication from her laboratory explores the use of repurposed mammalian CDK-like kinase inhibitors as potential antimalarial agents. While such kinase inhibitors are well known in cancer and cardiovascular research, their application to malaria targets represents a novel and promising approach.Kinases are attractive drug targets because of their central role in cell signaling and growth pathways. By targeting specific kinases involved in different stages of the malaria parasite life cycle—whether asexual growth, gametocytogenesis, or differentiation—it may be possible to significantly inhibit parasite growth and progression.<h5>Chromatography in Protein Expression and Purification Workflows</h5>Chromatography plays a critical role throughout Subhoja’s research. Her experience spans from basic chromatography techniques during her early training to advanced protein purification workflows using affinity chromatography, gel filtration (size exclusion chromatography), and ion exchange chromatography.Recombinant proteins are routinely purified using affinity resins such as nickel or cobalt, followed by further purification to remove contaminants. Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (FPLC) enables compact, stepwise purification workflows suitable for producing proteins for in vitro assays.A recurring challenge in this process is the expression of high-molecular-weight proteins, which often accumulate in insoluble fractions or inclusion bodies. Careful selection of expression vectors, host systems, and induction conditions is therefore essential to maximize yield and solubility.<h5>Integrating Size Exclusion Chromatography into the Workflow</h5>Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is typically used after affinity purification to further improve protein purity. Following elution with imidazole or glutathione, desalting is required to prevent buffer components from interfering with downstream assays. This is often achieved using desalting columns such as G-25 or PD-10.To remove lower-molecular-weight contaminants, finer SEC media—such as Superdex or Sephacryl columns—are employed. Concentration steps using molecular-weight cut-off filters are then applied to obtain the desired protein concentration for functional studies.These iterative purification and troubleshooting steps are a routine part of protein biochemistry and reflect the importance of methodical optimization and careful validation.<h5>The Role of Mass Spectrometry in Biomolecular Characterization</h5>Mass spectrometry is a key analytical tool in Subhoja’s research pipeline, particularly for target identification and validation. In both malaria and cancer research, MS is used alongside chromatography, immunoprecipitation, and pull-down assays to study protein interactions and molecular recognition events.Affinity-based mass spectrometry enables the identification of binding partners and interactors, whether studying proteins, long non-coding RNAs, or protein complexes. Techniques such as native MS, tandem affinity purification, and proximity labeling (e.g., TurboID-based workflows) provide deeper insights into molecular networks and signaling pathways.These approaches are essential for understanding how candidate drug targets function within complex biological systems.<h5>Sample Preparation Challenges in Biological Research</h5>Sample preparation remains one of the most challenging aspects of biological experimentation. Whole-cell lysates contain proteases, nucleases, and other components that can rapidly degrade target molecules. Preventing degradation requires minimizing preparation time, maintaining low temperatures, and using appropriate inhibitor cocktails.Reproducibility is also critical: biological experiments require multiple replicates, and variability is often unavoidable. Careful handling, protocol optimization, and continuous troubleshooting are essential to ensure reliable results, whether preparing samples for chromatography, mass spectrometry, sequencing, or immunoprecipitation.<h5>Advances in Chromatography and MS for Malaria Research</h5>Modern advances in chromatography and mass spectrometry significantly enhance malaria research by enabling precise target identification, quantification, and functional characterization. Drug discovery workflows begin with construct design and recombinant expression, followed by purification and interaction studies.In malaria research, stage-specific parasite biology requires careful extraction and analysis of proteins from different life cycle stages. Tandem affinity MS, immunoprecipitation, and in vivo validation studies help confirm target relevance and therapeutic potential.Recent work on repurposed kinase inhibitors has shown promising results, including inhibition of hemozoin formation—a key detoxification pathway for the malaria parasite—highlighting the potential of such compounds for further development.<h5>Malaria, Drug Resistance, and Global Impact</h5>Malaria remains a major global health burden, with over 600,000 deaths annually and widespread drug resistance complicating treatment. Artemisinin resistance, particularly associated with mutations in the K13 propeller domain, has driven the search for new targets and therapies.During her PhD, Subhoja focused on falcipain-2, a cysteine protease involved in hemoglobin degradation within the parasite. This pathway is critical for parasite survival and has emerged as a promising drug target. Her work revealed that falcipain-2 operates within a larger protein complex responsible for hemoglobin processing and amino acid release.Understanding these molecular mechanisms is essential for developing robust, stage-specific antimalarial strategies.<h5>Advice for Early-Career Researchers</h5>For researchers just starting out, Subhoja emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience. Working directly with cells, lysates, and analytical tools is essential for truly understanding experimental systems. Failure is an inherent part of research, and perseverance is key.Motivation, teamwork, careful sample handling, and thorough preparation all contribute to long-term success. Reading extensively, critically evaluating one’s own work, and appreciating incremental progress are vital aspects of a sustainable research career.Every successful experiment—no matter how small—represents meaningful progress and contributes to the broader goals of science and medicine.<h5>Closing Remarks</h5>The discussion highlights how interdisciplinary approaches combining chromatography, mass spectrometry, structural biology, and biochemistry are driving advances in malaria drug discovery. Through careful experimental design, analytical rigor, and collaborative teamwork, researchers can address complex biological challenges and contribute to global health solutions.<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>

Affinity, Gel Filtration, Size Exclusion Chromatography: Repurposing Kinase Inhibitors for Malaria

Article

Product

Video

Scientists

Food

Interview

Science and research

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

WATREX Prague is the distributor and producer of HPLC techniques in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Main Chromatografic and Related Techniques Supported: LC, GPC, IC, IEC, Automated SPE, LC Columns and special column packings, LC method development, Software development, Laboratory Robots.

Watrex Praha

Metrohm

Agilent Technologies

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Wiley

This webinar hosted by Select Science together with Metrohm shows the possibilities of ion chromatography systems that are optimized for multiple applications.

Metrohm: Ion chromatography for multiple applications

Ion chromatography for multiple applications

Possibilities of ion chromatography systems that are optimized for multiple applications.

Learn in this webinar how automatic calibration in ion chromatography can help you save time and gain reliability.

Metrohm: Automatic calibration in ion chromatography

Automatic calibration in ion chromatography

Learn in this webinar how automatic calibration in ion chromatography can help you save time and gain reliability.

Learn how you can determine glyphosate and its primary metabolite AMPA in drinking water by ion chromatography in a straightforward manner.

Metrohm: Glyphosate and AMPA analysis by ion chromatography

Glyphosate and AMPA analysis by ion chromatography

Learn how you can determine glyphosate and its primary metabolite AMPA in drinking water by ion chromatography in a straightforward manner.

Thermo Fisher Scientific has a unique Ion Chromatography portfolio that provides a full range of applications to support analysis within the adult beverage industry. We have applications with easy workflows that can help you save time and resources.
During this webinar, we will discuss how our newest instruments can detect and quantify analytes such as organic acids, biogenic amines, carbohydrates, and alcohols and glycols in fermented media. This can help scientists produce the best products with the best setup from research to manufacturing.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Wai-Chi Man (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Wai has been with Thermo Fisher Scientific for more than eight years working with a wide range of customers in various industries. She provides ion chromatography (IC) support in method development, troubleshooting, sample preparation, training, seminars, events, and workshops. During this time, she has gained deep knowledge, skill, and understanding in areas such as IC-MS, IC-ICP-MS, carbohydrate analysis, metabolomics, and polar pesticides. Prior to joining the company, she worked for Wellcome Research and GlaxoSmithKline. Wai is passionate about promoting STEM to future scientists by encouraging, nurturing, and supporting them.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Ion Chromatography Analysis for Adult beverages

Ion Chromatography Analysis for Adult beverages

The IC Symposium will kick off with a plenary lecture by Dr. Joachim Weiss on 45 years of ion chromatography and its impact on industries. There will also be presentations from fellow scientists in Asia Pacific as well as an interactive forum forum with industry experts to answer your questions on IC in pharma and biopharma topics and IC applications and technology. Access technical resources and explore IC offerings.
The future begins with innovation. For 45 years, innovative Thermo Scientific Dionex Ion Chromatography (IC) systems have enabled extraordinary breakthroughs and discoveries. Laboratory professionals like you have been propelling science forward with reliable, reproducible analyses based on Dionex solutions. Confidence drives your passion for excellence and exploration every day.
Your scientific talent, combined with our exceptional IC innovations, continues to deliver impact for the world’s scientific community, empowering health and safety in society and spearheading positive environmental developments.
Together, let us advance IC science for greater future impact. Because we can’t meet in person, we’re meeting virtually – with events happening over three days to conveniently engage all global regions and time zones. One day for Asia, one for Europe and one for the Americas (although you’re welcome to join the symposium any day to post questions and view sessions of interest).
<h3>Attend the virtual event to:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Hear from industry experts about the impact of ion chromatography on applied sciences</li>
<li>Learn how IC is helping your colleagues achieve new advancements</li>
<li>Raise topics pertaining to ion chromatography and its application, which will be addressed by a panel of IC experts in the forum</li>
<li>Browse resources to see how IC can be applied in your lab</li>
</ul>
<h3>20th October 2020 (Tuesday) Agenda - Ideal for Asia, Australia, India</h3>
<ul>
<li>10:30am IST (7:00am CEST): Plenary - Topic: 45 years of ion chromatography and its impact on industries (PD Dr. Joachim Weiss | Technical Director Dionex Products | Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH)
</li>
<li>11:15am IST (7:45am CEST): The advantage of using IC In treated sewage water analysis compared to photometric method (Mr. Ang Eng Loo | Business Manager Analytical Div. | CLMO Technology Sdn Bhd)
</li>
<li>11:30am IST (8:00am CEST): IC capabilities for analysis of plating bath (Mr. Nandkumar | V.P. QA | Grauer &amp; Weil (India) Ltd, Mumbai, India)
</li>
<li>11:45am IST (8:15am CEST): Ion-chromatography coupled with (QQQ) mass spectrometry: A powerful solution for trace analysis and speciation in environmental and industrial (Professor Brett Paull | Associate Dean (Research) – College of Sciences and Engineering | University of Tasmania)
</li>
<li>12:00pm IST (8:30am CEST): Q&amp;A Session
</li>
<li>12:15pm IST (8:45am CEST): Forum (Facilitator: Dr. Ruby Ong)
</li>
<li>Panelists: PD Dr. Joachim Weiss (Technical Director, Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH)
</li>
<li>Panelists: Professor Paul Haddad (Emeritus Distinguished Professor, University of Tasmania)
</li>
<li>Panelists: Dr. Wai-Chi Man (IC Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>1:00pm IST (9:30am CEST): End of Day 1
</li>
</ul>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 1

Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 1

This day will build on the first day’s content, covering the future of ion chromatography. It also features tips and tricks, presentations from our Academic researchers from University of Oxford and University College Cork, a facilitated forum with industry experts to answer your questions on IC in food and beverage topics and IC applications and technology and access to technical resources and IC offerings.
The future begins with innovation. For 45 years, innovative Thermo Scientific Dionex Ion Chromatography (IC) systems have enabled extraordinary breakthroughs and discoveries. Laboratory professionals like you have been propelling science forward with reliable, reproducible analyses based on Dionex solutions. Confidence drives your passion for excellence and exploration every day.
Your scientific talent, combined with our exceptional IC innovations, continues to deliver impact for the world’s scientific community, empowering health and safety in society and spearheading positive environmental developments.
Together, let us advance IC science for greater future impact. Because we can’t meet in person, we’re meeting virtually – with events happening over three days to conveniently engage all global regions and time zones. One day for Asia, one for Europe and one for the Americas (although you’re welcome to join the symposium any day to post questions and view sessions of interest).
<h3>Attend the virtual event to:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Hear from industry experts about the impact of ion chromatography on applied sciences</li>
<li>Learn how IC is helping your colleagues achieve new advancements</li>
<li>Raise topics pertaining to ion chromatography and its application, which will be addressed by a panel of IC experts in the forum</li>
<li>Browse resources to see how IC can be applied in your lab</li>
</ul>
<h3>21st October 2020 (Wednesday) Agenda - Ideal for Europe, Middle East &amp; Africa</h3>
<ul>
<li>9:30 am BST (10:30 am CEST): Plenary Talk: What Does the Future Hold for Ion Chromatography? (Dr. Jeffrey Rohrer | Director of Applications Development | Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>10:00 am BST (11:00 am CEST): Exploring IC-MS for the analysis of metabolites in cells, tissues and bio-fluids (Prof. James McCullagh| Director of the Mass Spectrometry Research Facility | University of Oxford, UK)
</li>
<li>10:15 am BST (11:15 am CEST): A HPAEC-PAD method for the analysis of FODMAPs in cereals and cereal-based products (Lilit Ispiryan | PhD Candidate at University College Cork, Ireland)
</li>
<li>10:30 am BST (11:30 am CEST): Q&amp;A with Prof James McCullagh &amp; Lilet Ispiryan
</li>
<li>10:45 am BST (11:45 am CEST): End of morning session
</li>
<li>1:00 pm BST (2:00 pm CEST): IC in Forensics (Dr. Elizabeth Gilchrist | School of Chemistry &amp; Environmental Research Institute | University College Cork, Ireland)
</li>
<li>1:20 pm BST (2:20 pm CEST): The Ultimate Tips and Tricks Guide - From Start Up to Software (Daniel Talbot | UK IC Support Specialist | Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>1:50 pm BST (2:50 pm CEST): Forum - Q&amp;A with our panel of IC &amp; Food &amp; Beverage experts (Timothy Lumb, ALS Laboratories | Lilit Ispiryan, University College Cork | Dr. Jeff Rohrer, Thermo Fisher Scientific | Dr. Detlef Jensen, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>2:30 pm BST (3:30 pm CEST): End of Day 2
</li>
</ul>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 2

Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 2

The future begins with innovation. For 45 years, innovative Thermo Scientific Dionex Ion Chromatography (IC) systems have enabled extraordinary breakthroughs and discoveries. Laboratory professionals like you have been propelling science forward with reliable, reproducible analyses based on Dionex solutions. Confidence drives your passion for excellence and exploration every day.
Your scientific talent, combined with our exceptional IC innovations, continues to deliver impact for the world’s scientific community, empowering health and safety in society and spearheading positive environmental developments.
Together, let us advance IC science for greater future impact. Because we can’t meet in person, we’re meeting virtually – with events happening over three days to conveniently engage all global regions and time zones. One day for Asia, one for Europe and one for the Americas (although you’re welcome to join the symposium any day to post questions and view sessions of interest).
<h3>Attend the virtual event to:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Hear from industry experts about the impact of ion chromatography on applied sciences</li>
<li>Learn how IC is helping your colleagues achieve new advancements</li>
<li>Raise topics pertaining to ion chromatography and its application, which will be addressed by a panel of IC experts in the forum</li>
<li>Browse resources to see how IC can be applied in your lab</li>
</ul>
<h3>27th October (Tuesday) Agenda - Ideal for the Americas</h3>
<ul>
<li>8:00 am PT (17:00 CEST): Plenary Talk: 45 Years of Ion Chromatography – Milestones of the Development (Dr. Joachim Weiss | Technical Director | Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>8:45 am PT (17:45 CEST): What I See Undersea with IC (Nathan F. Dalleska, Ph.D. | Director , Environmental Analysis Center | Caltech)
</li>
<li>9:05 am PT (18:05 CEST): Improved understanding of the hydrogeochemistry of arsenic and selenium in ambient and industrial waters (Dirk Wallschläger | Professor, Environmental Chemistry |Trent University)
</li>
<li>9:25 am PT (18:25 CEST): Fundamentals of IC and Virtual Column (Dr. Charles Lucy | Professor Emeritus | University of Alberta)
</li>
<li>Q&amp;A Session
</li>
<li>9:45 am PT (18:45 CEST): Forum (Facilitator: Dana Stradtner)
</li>
<li>Panelists: Dr. Jeffrey Rohrer (Thermo Fisher Scientific
</li>
<li>Panelists: Kirk Chassinol (Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>Panelists: Michael Hvizd (Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</li>
<li>10:30 am PT (19:30 CEST): End of Day 3
</li>
</ul>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 3

Global IC Virtual Symposium - Day 3

For food and beverage analysis, HPLC is a known and established analysis technique, whereas ion chromatography is typically known for ion analysis in water samples.
But is this classification correct? Which analyses can be done with ion chromatography for food and beverage samples? What are the benefits of working with Metrohm IC? And what other Metrohm instrumentation is available for food and beverage analysis?
This webinar will answer these questions and provide insights into how to optimize your IC analysis. 
<h3>Who should attend the webinar:</h3>
The webinar provides valuable input for chemists as well as for lab technicians, lab staff or students who handle food and beverage analysis. It provides practical tips for correct and time-saving analysis.
<h3>By attending this webinar you will:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Get a better understanding of the differences between the two techniques, IC and HPLC</li>
<li>Learn how you can save time in daily routine work using Metrohm Inline Sample Preparation Techniques</li>
<li>Get an understanding of the applications that can be done with IC or other Metrohm instrumentation for food and beverage analysis</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Gabriele Zierfels (Sr. Product Specialist IC, Metrohm International Headquarters)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Gabriele Zierfels studied food chemistry and developed HPLC methods for the determination of antibiotics in animal food matrices for her PhD. As a laboratory manager, she worked for almost 14 years in the field of chemical analysis for textile and leather testing in a contract lab. During this time, she gained extensive practical knowledge in sample preparation techniques and the operation of HPLC, GC-MS, and LC-MS. Gabriele has worked in the Competence Center Ion Chromatography at Metrohm for more than 10 years. As a Sr. Product Specialist, she is responsible for method development – especially for the food industry – as well as customer support and training.
</blockquote>

Pixabay/Peggy cci: Solutions for Analysis in Food and Beverages Save Time by using IC

Solutions for Analysis in Food and Beverages Save Time by using IC

Reaching further in your metabolomics study with IC, GC and LC-MS analysis.
The comprehensive analysis of small endogenous and exogenous molecules in a biological system results in a better understanding of metabolomic processes. The characterization of metabolic phenotypes enables biomarker discovery, disease taxonomy, and tracking treatment effects. 
The metabolomic challenge includes a large number of compounds with diverse physicochemical properties. This leads to new analytical challenges when a more comprehensive coverage of the metabolic landscape is needed.
High-resolution accurate mass measurement (HRAM) mass spectrometry (MS) is an essential tool in metabolome analysis. Thermo Scientific Orbitrap-based mass spectrometers provide a leading combination of sensitivity, mass accuracy, and resolving power that helps answer the most challenging analytical tasks.
MS, however, suffers from disadvantages such as ion suppression and the differentiation of isomers. The combination of MS with separation techniques addresses such issues. Different chromatographic approaches can be used and fine-tuned to a specific set of metabolites, including polar and ionic compounds, glycans, volatile compounds, and steroids. The comprehensive analysis of the metabolome, however, requires a combination of this method.
<h3>We will present three topics:</h3>
<ul>
<li>The untargeted screening workflow for identification and comparison of different wine origin using the GC Orbitrap technology and Compound discoverer,</li>
<li>The combination of Ion Chromatography (IC) with HRAM to determine polar and ionic components, </li>
<li>A HPLC-Orbitrap example study to showing the changes observed in mice plasma composition depending on the diet type.</li>
</ul>
All experimental data were processed with the Thermo Scientific Compound Discoverer software, to comprehensively profile the samples, detect more compounds, and identify unknowns. 
We will introduce our newest member of the LC-MS family, the Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris mass spectrometer.
<h3>What you will learn:</h3>
<ul>
<li>MS instrumentation designed for exceptional usability resulting in increased productivity in metabolomics</li>
<li>Benefits of high-resolution accurate mass spectrometry (HRAM) in unknown analysis and research</li>
<li>Analytical solutions for sample profiling</li>
<li>Examples of complete IC-MS, GC-MS, and LC-MS workflows for unknown identification using Orbitrap technology and Compound Discoverer software</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Anas Kamleh (Expert Sales Support, Metabolomics, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Anas joined Thermo Fisher Scientific in 2015 as an application specialist in metabolomics. He is driving a new role since 2018 that entitles supervising collaboration projects and ensuring our hardware and software products provide the best experience for Orbitrap metabolomics users. His industrial and academic background extend to close to 15 years of experience in the field of metabolomics spanning a PhD thesis from University of Strathclyde, Scotland and postdoctoral research positions at Imperial College London and Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Racha Mailler (Sales Support Specialist GCMS/MS, EFS-Industrial, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Racha joined Thermo Fisher Scientific in 2016 as Technical support specialist for GC and GC/MS. She is driving a new role since 2018 as an application specialist for GC, GCMS and Orbitrap technologies. Her role has expand to cover EMEA zone. Her everyday job is to help our GCMS users getting the best out of their instrument by training them on the software and advising them with the method development. Racha holds a PhD degree in Analytical chemistry from the university of Lille 1.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Detlef Jensen (Sr. Expert, SST, EFS-Industrial, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Detlef holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the Technical University Berlin/Germany. For more than 30 years, he covered many positions at Dionex, now Thermo Fisher Scientific in ion chromatography. Since March 2013, he has been supporting our users and field teams all over Europe in his role as European Ion Chromatography Expert.
</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Omics Winter Webinars - Metabolomics session 4: Chromatographic solutions

Metabolomics session 4: Chromatographic solutions

Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are disinfection byproducts caused by the reaction of chlorine and naturally occurring dissolved organic matter present in drinking water. Five commonly found HAAs are regulated by the EPA with a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 60 ug/L.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Emily Parry, PhD (LC/MS Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Emily Parry received her PhD degree in Environmental Chemistry from the University of California, Davis. She joined Agilent after completing her postdoctoral work at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Her specialty is method development and measurement of emerging contaminants.
</blockquote>

LCMS webinars focusing on IC - page 10

Haloacetic Acids Analysis by IC-TQ