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

Separation Science

Agilent Technologies

MAC-MOD ANALYTICAL

Phenomenex

SelectScience

Waters Corporation

<h3>Solving Problems That Matter - a Waters webinar series featuring USP speakers</h3><h4>Episode 9: Nitrosamines</h4>When present in pharmaceutical products, nitrosamine impurities - a probable carcinogen - can disrupt drug supply chains and lead to shortages resulting from product recalls and withdrawals.Join our panelists Naiffer Romero from the USP and Marian Twohig from Waters Corporation as they address analytical challenges in the detection and control of nitrosamines and Nitrosamine Drug-Substance Related Impurities (NDSRIs).Key learning objectives:<ul><li>Understand the current analytical challenges associated with the detection and control of nitrosamine impurities. Explore fit-for-purpose and compliant-ready LC-MS-MS solutions for the cGMP laboratory.</li></ul>Who should attend:<ul><li>Pharmaceutical scientists involved with the detection and control of nitrosamines impurities</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Naiffer Romero, MSc, MPH (Principal Scientist - Scientific Affairs, US Pharmacopeia)</blockquote><blockquote>Naiffer has more than 20 years of pharmaceutical industry experience. In his 13+ years tenure with USP, he has served several roles: Lead scientist in the dosage form performance laboratory, reference standard development team, Manager in charge of LATAM Compendial engagement and education, responsible for stakeholders and national regulatory bodies engagement. Naiffer is also a certified USP Education instructor. Most recently, Naiffer joined USP's Scientific Affairs performance cell, where he leads scientific outreach and engagement for LATAM &amp; U.S. on key national health priority topics. His combined pharmaceutical expertise includes Analytical Development, salt and polymorph selection, Development of dissolution methods, IVIVC modeling, and impurity analytical strategy. Naiffer also serves as a member of USP's Nitrosamine Steering Committee and community host to 'Nitrosamine Exchange,' a knowledge community in All-things Nitrosamine. Naiffer also liaises technical discussion on pharmacopeial collaboration, including international meetings of World Pharmacopeias (part of WHO).</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Marian Twohig, Ph.D. (Consultant Scientist, Waters Corporation)</blockquote><blockquote>Marian has over 20 years of experience supporting quantitative and qualitative applications in the pharmaceutical, food and environmental and materials science industries. She works as a Consultant Scientist for Waters Corporation where she has previously held several Senior Scientist positions. Currently, the focus of Marian’s work is in the development of quantitative analytical methods to meet the needs of the pharmaceutical industry. She is particularly interested in chromatographic separations and the application of combining low- and high-resolution mass spectral data with other chemical information for identification of unknown chemical entities. Marian holds a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Munster Technological University, Cork, Ireland.</blockquote><blockquote>Moderator: Isabelle Vu Trieu (Pharmaceutical Market Development Manager, Americas, Waters Corporation)</blockquote><blockquote>Isabelle is a business development professional dedicated to delivering benefits to analytical scientists in the life sciences industry. With over 20 years of experience in providing chromatography and mass spectrometry solutions, Isabelle is particularly interested in helping pharmaceutical scientists achieve the data quality and integrity needed to drive decisions for drug quality, safety and efficacy. Isabelle joined Waters in 2009 and currently manages the development of the pharmaceutical market in the Americas. She holds Masters’ degrees in Chemistry from Columbia University and the University Claude Bernard in Lyon, France as well as a Chemical Engineering degree from Ecole Supérieure de Chimie Physique Electronique in Lyon, France.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Solving Problems That Matter - a Waters webinar series featuring USP speakers

Nitrosamines

This webinar will address analytical challenges in the detection and control of nitrosamines and Nitrosamine Drug-Substance Related Impurities (NDSRIs).

This session will explore detectors commonly used in polymer analysis (RID, UV, MALS, Viscometer), emphasizing their specific applications based on polymer types (Branched, Linear, high Mw, low Mw).We will discuss their roles in Mw determination, Quantitation, Viscosity measurement, and size and shape determination etc.&nbsp;<blockquote>Presenter: Ansuman Mahato (Product Specialist Liquid Phase Separations, Agilent Technologies)Ansuman has been a Product Specialist at Agilent Technologies for 14 years, working with the pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, food, and chemicals industries. Based in Waldbronn, Germany, the manufacturing site for Agilent’s chromatography solutions, he helps make labs more efficient and compliant and has rich experience with techniques like HPLC, UHPLC, GPC/SEC, Prep LC, and 2D-LC.Ansuman is also skilled in polymer analysis using advanced tools like viscometry and MALS. He has published many papers in international journals and is a popular speaker for his practical insights and innovative solutions.</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: HPLC Beginner Webinar Series

GPC/SEC Detector Selection

This session will explore detectors commonly used in polymer analysis (RID, UV, MALS, Viscometer).

When developing an LC method, there are various factors that can be tested to achieve the desired resolution and symmetry of the analytes.In this webinar we will discuss the various factors and give tips on developing a robust method.<blockquote>Presenter: Laura Montis (Product Specialist Liquid Phase Separations, Agilent)Laura began her carrier in the Liquid Chromatography over 15 years ago. After experiencing the pharmaceutical world in an analytical development lab, she went on to work with preparative chromatography and gained experience with Supercritical Fluid Chromatography prior to moving onto special HPLC applications, like 2DLC and Online LC.Throughout her career, Laura has held several positions, including application chemist, trainer, sales specialist, and marketing business development. She is currently Product Specialist for liquid phase chromatography systems within the International Distributor Organization in EMEA at Agilent Technologies.Laura studied analytical chemistry and holds a master’s degree from University of Lyon in France.</blockquote>

Method Development in HPLC

In this webinar we will discuss the various factors and give tips on developing a robust HPLC method.

<div data-lineheight="1.5">Food analysis is crucial for consumer safety, authenticity, and pollutant detection. Benchmark analytical methods use complex protocols and organic solvents, and more sustainable alternatives are to be sought out. A recent trend in analytical chemistry leverages raw data from experiments (e.g., chromatographic profiles, spectra) as sample fingerprints, analyzed with multivariate tools to predict characteristics (e.g., origin, composition) and identify adulterations. These approaches reduce analyses, lab work, and resource use, offering greener, more cost-effective alternatives.The webinar will show how to combine the two aims, sustainability and data maximization, using an aqueous colloidal system, developing AF4-DAD-MALS-dRI-FLD platforms to separate and characterize components from food matrices:</div><ul><li data-lineheight="1.5">Red wine profiling and in-depth analysis of output data can highlight particulate complexity, explain sensory feedback, and lead to cultivar grouping.</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Milk analysis and multivariate elaboration of fractograms enabled single-run discrimination of factors like thermal treatment, fat content, and even the manufacturing plant’s impact on colloidal content.</li></ul>These AF4 method are fast, uses minimal sample preparation, avoid chemical treatments, offering a greener, faster and possibly cheaper alternative. The FFF approach can enhance food quality control and fraud detection processes and is adaptable to other colloidal food samples. Additionally, it underscores the need to increase multivariate analysis in data from FFF platforms.<h4>Key Learning Objectives:</h4><ul><li data-lineheight="1.5">Tackle native sample handling</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Understanding data extraction from multidetection profiling</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Rationalizing multivariate analysis of FFF data</li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend:</h4><ul><li data-lineheight="1.5">Laboratory managers</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Chromatographers</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Scientist in the Food &amp; beverage industry</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Valentina Marassi, Ph.D. (University of Bologna, byFlow srl)Dr. Marassi is Tenure-Track Researcher and Assistant Professor in Analytical Chemistry at the University of Bologna. She graduated with a B.S. in chemistry, a Master’s in Organic Chemistry and completed a PhD in Analytical Chemistry in the same Institution. Her core research involves separation science and profiling-multidetection applied to nano-bio samples, and developing FFF-chemometrics strategies to model and understand colloidal profiles.Presenter: Prof. Andrea Zattoni (University of Bologna, byFlow srl)Andrea Zattoni joined the University of Bologna in 2006 and is currently an Associate Professor. He holds an M.S. in Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences from the University of Bologna with a research focus on separation science. His main research interests include the fundamental and instrumental development of field-flow fractionation and its combination with highly sensitive and selective detection techniques.Presenter: Udayabagya (Bud) Halim (Waters | Wyatt Technology)Bud Halim is a senior marketing analyst at Wyatt Technology. He holds a B.S. and Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the UCLA. Bud started his career as an adjunct professor where he taught courses such as Biochem, Analytical, and Physical Chemistr. Prior to joining Wyatt Technology, Bud worked in the scientific instrumentation field as an applications scientist for three years. His experience spans the characterization of batteries, semiconductors, and the stability of biologics, LNPs, and viral vectors.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Colloidal Fingerprints of Food and Beverages with multidetector AF4-MALS

Colloidal Fingerprints of Food and Beverages with multidetector AF4-MALS

How to combine sustainability and data maximization, using an aqueous colloidal system, developing AF4-DAD-MALS-dRI-FLD platforms.

Fingerprints of Food and Beverages with AF4-MALS

With an understanding of selectivity, and using a variety of chromatographic data, we discuss phase design principles and how it is possible to introduce functionality to enhance selectivity through different mechanisms such as hydrophobicity, π-π, dipole-dipole and shape selectivity interactions.This webinar is the second part in a three-part series by Gemma Lo, called "A Systematic UHPLC / HPLC Method Development Strategy with Complementary Stationary Phases to Maximize Selectivity and Resolution."Each part is about 20min long.Presenter: Gemma Lo

MAC MOD Analytical: Utilizing Stationary Phase Design in Method Development

Utilizing Stationary Phase Design in Method Development

We discuss phase design principles and how it is possible to introduce functionality to enhance selectivity through different mechanisms.

This course is designed to introduce those familiar with analytical-scale HPLC to capillary (or “nano”) liquid chromatography. Although both techniques are based on the same fundamental principles, capillary LC delivers a number of distinct advantages with appropriate use.Commercial instrument options, as well as the basics of preparing your own capillary LC columns, will be described. Because one of the most prominent uses of capillary LC is its coupling to mass spectrometry for complex biological sample analysis, special attention will be given to this important area. Both academic and industrial researchers will be able to apply the information gained through this course to successfully use this essential technique.After completing this course, participants will be able to:<ul><li>Understand the differences between analytical and capillary scale LC</li><li>Describe the fundamentals of capillary LC column preparation</li><li>Determine the best detection modes for a given application</li><li>Explain the advantages of coupling capillary LC with mass spectrometry and how to approach method development using capillary LC-MS</li><li>Identify best practices for the use of capillary LC to solve analytical challenges</li></ul><h5>Who Should Attend?</h5>Scientists, chemists, analytical researchers, lab directors and managers, VPs and directors of QC/QA, lab owners<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. James Grinias (Professor, Department of Chemistry &amp; Biochemistry, Rowan University)James Grinias is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry &amp; Biochemistry at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey, USA. Dr. Grinias has a number of research interests focused on chemical separations and microfluidics, both at the fundamental level and for the analysis of biological systems. He is the recipient of the 2021 American Chemical Society Satinder Ahuja Award for Young Investigators in Separation Science and the 2022 LCGC Emerging Leader in Chromatography. At Rowan, he teaches courses in general, analytical, and bioanalytical chemistry while also conducting research on UHPLC column performance and instrument miniaturization.Presenter: Greg Ward (CEO, Axcend)Greg Ward serves as the CEO of Axcend, renowned for its portable high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems. Greg has over 30 years of experience in the technology and scientific instrumentation sectors. Before joining Axcend, Greg held technical and marketing roles at Hewlett Packard and Agilent Technologies. His leadership at Axcend has been pivotal in advancing the development and commercialization of the Axcend Focus LC®, a compact and eco-friendly HPLC system that has revolutionized the field by offering customers portability, ease of use, and reduced operational costs. Axcend has made significant strides in making high-quality chromatographic analysis accessible and convenient for various industries, including pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, and chemical manufacturing. Greg’s vision and dedication continue to push the boundaries of scientific analysis, making him a key leader in the field of compact liquid chromatography.</blockquote>

Separation Science: Introduction to Compact Liquid Chromatography

Introduction to Compact Liquid Chromatography

This course is designed to introduce those familiar with analytical-scale HPLC to capillary (or “nano”) liquid chromatography. 

<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5><ul><li>Any HPLC scientists beginning with method development&nbsp;or working with small molecules in pharmaceutical labs &nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Key Learning Points:</h5><ul><li>Learn about selectivity benefits of phenyl phases during reversed-phase HPLC</li><li>Review mobile-phase optimization when using a phenyl column</li><li>Examine a thorough comparison of different phenyl phases with a C18 phase</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Zachary Woodward (Senior Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)Zachary Woodward is a Senior Technical Specialist with Phenomenex, Inc, assisting laboratories with method development in the bio-pharma, environmental, and food industries. &nbsp;Zachary spent his formative years developing HPLC and GC methods with a pharmaceutical lab in Albany, NY, after which he developed HPLC and SPE methods in the clinical setting here in Southern California. &nbsp;Zachary received his B.Sci. in Chemistry from the College of William and Mary, was awarded his Master’s in Chemistry at San Diego State University, and is happy to speak with you today!</blockquote>

How to Choose a Phenyl Phase

Learn about selectivity benefits of phenyl phases during reversed-phase HPLC. Review mobile-phase optimization when using a phenyl column.

Key Learning Points:<ul><li>Gain a comprehensive understanding of solvent miscibility and recognize its significance</li><li>Develop an in-depth comprehension of how to properly solvent switch a column, and the potential consequences associated with incorrect procedures</li><li>Familiarize yourself with a standardized protocol for transitioning an LC column from one solvent system to another, ensuring a seamless solvent switch</li></ul>Who Should Attend:&nbsp;Any LC users who are looking to understand the factors that can impact a systems backpressure and how to mitigate potential backpressure problems.<blockquote>Presenter: Koen Askamp (Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)I am from the Netherlands, studied Molecular Life Sciences at Wageningen University (Netherlands), majoring in immunology. Analytical Chemistry was one of my favorite courses – who doesn’t love solving puzzles?I like drumming, scuba diving, motorcycle-riding, and this past winter I learned how to ski (a little)! &nbsp;</blockquote>

LC Pressure 101

Familiarize yourself with a standardized protocol for transitioning an LC column from one solvent system to another, ensuring a seamless solvent switch.

<div><div dir="" aria-atomic="true">Quality control (QC) labs today require instruments that can accurately and reproducibly tackle a broad range of applications in a way that is reliable and compliance ready.Join us for an interactive educational session where we explore how the expansion of liquid chromatography (LC) detection can significantly enhance the capabilities and possibilities in QC analyses. See how the addition of PDA detection in an integrated, next-generation HPLC system, elevates QC labs to achieve:<ul><li>Enhanced analytical capabilities: Discover how the use of columns with smaller particle sizes facilitates seamless method adjustment or scaling on the Alliance iS HPLC System.</li><li>Wide application range: Suitable for a broad range of compounds due to its versatile wavelength range.</li><li>Method migration support: Tools to support moving methods from other HPLC systems, ensuring comparable results.</li><li>Data integrity: Provides reliable and reproducible results crucial for regulatory compliance and quality control.</li></ul>Introducing the Alliance iS HPLC SystemThe Alliance iS HPLC system is the first-of-its-kind LC system that brings intuitive simplicity and performance to routine analyses. Initially impressing pharmaceutical QC lab teams with its integrated TUV detector, it has evolved to serve QC biopharma labs with the Alliance iS Bio HPLC System, featuring MaxPeak High Performance Surfaces (HPS) Technology.Now, with the latest addition of the integrated PDA detector, the Alliance iS HPLC System enters a whole new arena of applications.Next-Level UV Analysis for QC Labs<ul><li>3D spectral data acquisition wavelength: Capable of recording multiple 2D channels and 3D spectrum.</li><li>Versatile PDA detector: Applicable to any UV-based HPLC method with an wavelength range of 190-800 nm, allowing for the exploration and tracking of multiple peaks of interest with various lambda max.</li><li>Peak purity analysis: Conduct peak purity analysis through Empower Chromatography Data System (CDS).</li><li>Peak identification and confirmation: Identify or confirm peaks by individual spectrum, a key step in assay, impurity, and ID pharmaceutical methods.</li></ul>Case Studies<ul><li>Scaling a method from the Alliance iS HPLC System with PDA Detector: Learn how to scale an HPLC method to 2.5 um particle column on the Alliance iS HPLC System with PDA detector, taking advantage of pressure range for shorter run times and lower solvent consumption.</li><li>Method migration of a USP monograph to the Alliance iS HPLC System with PDA Detector: Understand impact of instrument characteristics on method migration or transfer, and how to successfully move your method from different vendor systems to the Alliance iS HPLC System with PDA Detector.</li></ul>Don't miss this opportunity to learn how to leverage the latest advancements in LC detection to enhance your QC lab's capabilities and efficiency.<blockquote>Presenter: Patrick Flanagan (Principal Product Marketing Manager, QA/QC, Waters Corporation)</blockquote><div><blockquote>Patrick Flanagan is a Principal Product Marketing Manager in Waters’ QA/QC Division, where he has worked for over six years. He currently is responsible for product marketing and product management activities for Waters’ next generation HPLC systems.He received his bachelor’s in science degree from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Biochemistry and worked for 15 years as a formulation scientist.Patrick began his career in Waters’ product management department responsible for optical detection, multi-dimensional systems, the Alliance HPLC System, Arc Premier System, Arc HPLC System, and the new Alliance iS HPLC System. His recent work has been focused on the development of innovative new products for pharmaceutical QA/QC departments.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Lise Gauthier (Principal Evaluation Scientist, Waters Corporation)Lise Gauthier is Principal Scientist within the QA/QC Business Strategy group at Waters Corporation in Milford, MA. Prior to joining Waters in 2014, Lise worked in the pharmaceutical industry holding within Quality Assurance and Drug Discovery. Her current role at Waters includes system validation and evaluation of competitive systemsPresenter: Amanda Dlugasch (Senior Scientist, Waters Corporation)Amanda Dlugasch is a Senior Scientist in the QA/QC Strategy and Growth Department at Waters Corporation in Milford, MA. She received her B.A. in Chemistry from Manhattanville College and her M.S. in Chemistry from Sacred Heart University. She started at Waters Corporation in the Instrument Evaluation group developing qualification protocols for newly released products. Upon transferring to the QA/QC Strategy and Growth Department, her initial focus was to evaluate and provide application and training material for the release of ACQUITY Arc UHPLC System. She studied how LC instrument design and LC system characteristics influence chromatography when transferring, scaling, and modernizing methods. Currently, she is working on evaluating the Alliance iS HPLC System.</blockquote></div></div></div>

Waters: Expanding Capabilities in QC Analyses with Advanced LC Detection

Expanding Capabilities in QC Analyses with Advanced LC Detection

Explore how the expansion of liquid chromatography (LC) detection can significantly enhance the capabilities and possibilities in QC analyses. 

Analyses with Advanced LC Detection

As CHO-based processes for recombinant proteins continue to have increased cell densities and titers, the need for advancement in clarification technologies is of importance to enable manufacturing scalability. A novel technology, anion exchange (AEX) fiber chromatography, aims to address this challenge and has proven to be scalable up to large commercial manufacturing. This approach combines the ease of filter-like flowthrough operation and scalability, as well as the separation precision of chromatography.Join Dr. Masa Nakamura, Senior Application Development Specialist, Solventum, as he showcases a new clarification platform strategy that can offer seamless implementation and deployment from discovery to clinical and commercial manufacturing. It can also provide consistent and high-quality clarified fluid to enhance commercialization productivity.Key learning objectives<ul><li>Learn about the application of synthetic fiber chromatography to the clarification unit operation</li><li>Explore a novel approach to harvest and clarification in CHO processes</li><li>Understand options to overcome scale up challenges and to reduce soluble impurities during clarification</li></ul>Who should attend?Scientists, Engineers, and Heads of process development, manufacturing, MSAT, and CMC from biopharmaceutical organizations focused on recombinant protein production in CHO expression systems.Certificate of attendanceAll webinar participants can request a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes<blockquote>Presenter: Masa Nakamura, PhD (Senior Application Development Specialist, Solventum, Bioprocessing Filtration)</blockquote><div><blockquote>Dr. Masa Nakamura, Senior Application Development Specialist for Solventum, is responsible for developing new products and applications for biopharmaceutical clarification and purification processes, including the development of fiber chromatography products. He has over 25 years of bioseparation and bioengineering experience in academic and industry. He received his BS in Chemical Engineering and PhD in Biochemical Engineering from the University of Tokyo, Japan.Moderator: Matilde Marques (Life Sciences Assistant Editor, SelectScience)</blockquote></div>

SelectScience: Scalable chromatographic clarification platform for mAb manufacturing in CHO systems 

Scalable chromatographic clarification platform for mAb manufacturing in CHO systems 

A new clarification platform strategy that can offer seamless implementation and deployment from discovery to clinical and commercial manufacturing.

LCMS webinars focusing on HPLC - page 17