<h3>1. What exactly is a “source” in mass spectrometry?</h3>Whether you’re running LC-MS, imaging-MS, or native-MS, the ion source is where molecules leave the chromatograph, capillary, or sample stage and become charged gas-phase particles that the mass spectrometer can detect. The source you choose governs the kinds of compounds you’ll see, the flow rates you can use, and the robustness you can expect from run to run.Sources fall into two broad families:<ul><li>Vacuum ionization: Electron ionization (EI), fast-atom bombardment (FAB), and traditional MALDI create ions inside the instrument’s evacuated housing.</li><li>Atmospheric-pressure ionization (API): Electrospray (ESI), atmospheric-pressure chemical ionization (APCI), atmospheric-pressure photo-ionization (APPI), and today’s atmospheric-pressure MALDI (AP-MALDI) generate ions in open air and then guide them through an interface into vacuum.</li></ul><blockquote>Learn more about Ionization methods here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/mass-spectrometry/mass-spectrometry-learning-center/mass-spectrometry-technology-overview/ionization-source-technology-overview.html">Ionization Source Technology Overview | Thermo Fisher Scientific – US</a></blockquote><h3>2. Why electrospray changed the game</h3>In 1988 John B. Fenn demonstrated that a fine, high-voltage spray could coax intact proteins into the gas phase (see figure). The work earned a share of the 2002 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Because electrospray produces multiply charged ions, large biomolecules fit within the m/z window of modern analyzers. That single insight opened the door to:<ul><li>Bottom-up and top-down proteomics</li><li>Metabolomics and lipidomics</li><li>Native MS of protein complexes and antibodies</li><li>Targeted quantitation in clinical and environmental labs</li></ul>ESI also adapts to nearly any flow- from nanoliters to milliliters- via variants like nanoESI, capillaryESI, and heated ESI (HESI).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrospray_101_What_to_Know_About_LC_MS_Sources_and_a_First_Look_at_Optispray_2_eadef535f2.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Electrospray 101: What to Know About LC-MS Sources – and a First Look at Optispray: Basic principle of electrospray ionization. A high-voltage needle forms a fine spray of charged droplets that shrink through solvent evaporation, releasing gas-phase ions for mass spectrometry." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrospray_101_What_to_Know_About_LC_MS_Sources_and_a_First_Look_at_Optispray_2_eadef535f2.jpg 237w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="675"><h3>3. Putting ESI sources to work on a Thermo Scientific platform</h3>If you have ever run a proteomics experiment on Thermo Scientific mass spectrometry solution, you have already handled at least two ESI sources:<ul><li>Thermo Scientific OptaMax NG ion source or Thermo Scientific OptaMax Plus ion source with the Thermo Scientific Heated Electrospray Ionization (HESI-II) Probe – easy installation into the MS face, this robust family of sources, paired with adaptable HESI-II probes, supports a wide range of flow rates from 1 – 2,000 µL/min, providing flexibility for various applications. Most proteomics laboratories use it for calibrations or quick QC injections: direct-infuse a Pierce FlexMix solution through the HESI probe and the instrument can calibrate to sub-ppm accuracy</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2464">Thermo Scientific EASY-spray source</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2463">Thermo Scientific NanoSpray Flex ion source</a> – once calibration is complete, the OptaMax ion source comes off and a low-flow source goes on. Thermo Scientific EASY-Spray HPLC columns combine LC column, liquid junction, and emitter in a single finger-tight connection, eliminiating dead volume and manual x-axis alignment. The NanoSpray Flex offers emitter and geometry control, providing flexibility for method development when custom configurations are needed.</li></ul>In a routine bottom-up proteomics run, you might equilibrate an EASY-Spray column on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/398">Thermo Scientific Vanquish Neo UHPLC</a>, calibrate the mass spectrometer using the OptaMax NG ion source fitted with HESI-II probe, then swap to an EASY-spray source loaded with your nanoLC column, and finally acquire a 30-minute DIA gradient on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1959">Orbitrap Astral Zoom mass spectrometer</a> - never touching the mass spectrometer itself, only exchanging the front-end source.<h3>4. Alternate source spotlight: Native MS with static nano-spray</h3>Electrospray isn’t limited to peptide gradients. In native MS the goal is to perform mass analysis on intact, non-denatured molecules- virus capsids, ribosomal subunits, even 10 MDa gene-therapy assemblies- without the salts and organic solvents required by LC. Here the workhorse is static nano-spray: load &lt;5 uL of volatile, salt-stripped buffer into a pre-conductive tip, let capillary action deliver a &lt; 50 nL/min plume straight into the MS inlet, and- because the analyte never touches a column- fragile complexes stay together long enough for high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis. The Nanospray Flex ion source with the Offline Nano Electrospray kit makes difficult-to-analyze native applications compatible with state of the art mass spectrometry. For example, it is often coupled with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/560">Thermo Scientific Q Exactive UHMR mass spectrometer</a> and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/748">Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Ascend Structural Biology Tribrid mass spectrometer</a>. Static nano-spray highlights how choosing the right ion source- and the right accessories- opens new analytical spaces.<h3>5. Pain points in low-flow ESI- and why they matter</h3>Nano- and capillary-flow ESI deliver exquisite sensitivity but can frustrate even experienced users:<ul><li>Manual emitter alignment is operator-dependent</li><li>Dead volume between column, junction, and emitter broadens peak</li><li>Emitter wear forces frequent replacements and re-tuning</li></ul>For large-scale studies and labs with constant mass spectrometry up-time, that variability translates into lost samples, inconsistent quantitation, and extra QC overhead<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrospray_101_What_to_Know_About_LC_MS_Sources_and_a_First_Look_at_Optispray_3_35fab1de4d.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Electrospray 101: What to Know About LC-MS Sources – and a First Look at Optispray" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Electrospray_101_What_to_Know_About_LC_MS_Sources_and_a_First_Look_at_Optispray_3_35fab1de4d.jpg 216w," sizes="100vw" width="768" height="555"><h3>6. Enter breaking technology: The Thermo Scientific OptiSpray Technology provides&nbsp;automated nano- and capillary-flow success</h3>Unveiled at ASMS 2025, the OptiSpray technology- including the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/2465">Thermo Scientific OptiSpray ion source</a> and Thermo Scientific OptiSpray cartridge- tackles these challenges head-on:<ul><li>Motorized 3D alignment runs a “quick” (&lt;3 minute) or “full” optimization routine that centers the spray plume on the inlet- no rulers, no guesswork, same result no matter who is installing the column.</li><li>Easy installation with cartridge-based consumables with integrated column, junction and emitter in a single unit. Choose the Thermo Scientific EASY-Spray PepMap Neo UHPLC column or Thermo Scientific μPAC Neo HPLC Columns- just click in the cartridge, pull the handle down, click once, and you are plumbed.</li><li>Emitter options for capillary or nanoflow two emitters—one that is tapered and is designed for capillary flow rates, and one that is pulled and is designed for nanoflow rates.</li><li>Visualization of emitter and spray provides confidence in spray stability and visualization of spray disturbances.</li><li>Platform compatibility The OptiSpray ion source docks directly on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?search=Astral+">Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Astral MS series</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?search=Tribrid+">Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Tribrid MS series</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?search=Exploris">Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris MS series</a>, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1958">Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Excedion Pro MS</a>, and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1149">Thermo Scientific Stellar MS</a>, and pairs seamlessly with Thermo Scientific FAIMS Pro Duo interface- the automated alignment finds the emitter’s “sweet spot” in front of FAIMS Pro Duo interface for you.</li><li>Wide flow window (50 nl – 10 uL/min) means one source covers discovery DIA at 300 nl/min and high-throughput PRM at a few uL/min.</li><li>Proven robustness Early robustness data show &gt;2,000 HeLa digest injections with &lt;10% CV in peptide identifications.</li></ul>How OptiSpray technology helps: automated emitter alignment levels the playing field between new and experienced users, cutting out training time and human-introduced variability. Further, the sealed cartridge prevents carry-over and dead-volume inconsistencies. The result is reproducible, low-flow data, batch after batch, lab after lab, no matter who installs the column.<h3>7. Take home messages</h3><ul><li>Ion sources are the gatekeepers of detection. Choosing vacuum vs atmospheric- and within API, ESI vs APCI/APPI- dictates what you can detect.</li><li>Electrospray is the backbone of omics. Multiply charged ions bring biomolecules into reach of high-resolution mass analyzes, earning a Nobel nod and dominating modern workflows.</li><li>OptiSpray streamlines low-flow operation by automating emitter positioning and eliminating manual alignment, enabling consistent, high-sensitivity data across users and experiments.</li></ul><blockquote>Questions about fitting the right source to your application? Contact us or explore the ASMS 2025 resource hub for application notes, workflow posters, and customer testimonials.Visit us on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a>&nbsp;#MassSpectrometry #IonSources #Electrospray #OptiSpray #Proteomics #Metabolomics #Lipidomics #ESI</blockquote>

Electrospray 101: What to Know About LC-MS Sources – and a First Look at Optispray

<h4>Traceability in the 19th century&nbsp;</h4>Once a dairymaid bought one kilo of flour from the local shop. Next day she returned to sell one kilo of butter to the shopkeeper. He then complained that 50 grams of the kilo were missing.&nbsp;<blockquote>Oh that is odd, the dairymaid said, to get the correct weight I used the kilo of flour you sold to me yesterday to weigh the butter!&nbsp;</blockquote><h4>Traceability today&nbsp;</h4>Traceability is the ability to trace, for example, the ancestors of a person or the origin of a product. The word can be derived from the Latin tractus = drawn or the verb trahere = to draw.&nbsp;Traceability can refer to documentation (e.g. a sampling procedure), a laboratory, analyst or method. But as in ISO/IEC 17025, this leaflet deals with traceability of measurement results. That is, measurement results have to be traceable to the metrological1 references used. To be specific, we use the term metrological traceability.&nbsp;<blockquote>The current VIM2 definition of metrological traceability is: property of a measurement result whereby the result can be related to a reference through a documented unbroken chain of calibrations each contributing to the measurement uncertainty2&nbsp;</blockquote><h4>The references&nbsp;</h4>Ideally the references should be the values of national and international standards expressed in SI units. The traceability is realised through chains of calibrations, the traceability chain. For temperature and many other physical quantities such as mass and time, the traceability is easily established.&nbsp;In addition, in chemistry the working standards are substances with defined purity, solutions of pure substances and matrix reference materials.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Metrological_Traceability_of_Analytical_Results_2_b809be57bc.jpg" alt="Douglas Hasbun: An “analyst” not knowing the traceability of his/her values for volume, time, mass, calibration solution concentration and temperature." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Metrological_Traceability_of_Analytical_Results_2_b809be57bc.jpg 157w," sizes="100vw" width="852" height="847"><h4>Temperature example - Traceability to SI&nbsp;</h4>The temperature of a sample can be traced back through a chain of calibrations to the reference, an SI traceable value of temperature at 0 °C.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Metrological_Traceability_of_Analytical_Results_3_9933347331.jpg" alt="Douglas Hasbun: Temperature example - Traceability to SI" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Metrological_Traceability_of_Analytical_Results_3_9933347331.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="926" height="432"><h4>Example – Mercury in tuna fish&nbsp;</h4>A measurement result (mass fraction) obtained for mercury in a tuna fish sample is 4.03 ± 0.11 mg/kg. The result is reported as total Hg on dry weight basis (105 ºC, 12 h determined on a separate sample portion) and the measurement uncertainty is reported with a 95 % level of confidence (coverage factor, k=2). In this case mercury was determined with a mercury analyser (cold vapour atomic spectroscopy) after a microwave digestion.&nbsp;The samples are weighed on a balance with a calibration certificate relating the weight measured to the SI unit of mass (kg).&nbsp;The acid digest is diluted in a volumetric flask where the manufacturer documents the traceability of the volume of the flask to a national standard.&nbsp;The calibration curve was prepared using a CRM (certified reference material) – a mercury standard with a certificate stating a quantity value of 0.998 ± 0.005 mg/L (k=2) and with traceability to pure mercury.&nbsp;The method is validated using an appropriate matrix CRM with a total mercury mass fraction of 1.97 ± 0.04 mg/kg (k=2). The purpose of the validation is to check the method performance.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Metrological_Traceability_of_Analytical_Results_4_1ef2bc4b97.jpg" alt="Douglas Hasbun: An “analyst” knowing the traceability of his/her values for volume, time, mass, calibration solution concentration and temperature" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Metrological_Traceability_of_Analytical_Results_4_1ef2bc4b97.jpg 119w," sizes="100vw" width="808" height="1062"><h4>How can a laboratory demonstrate metrological traceability?&nbsp;</h4>The evidence required by the laboratory to demonstrate traceability for the mercury result is shown below:&nbsp;<ol><li>concentration of the Hg solution – a certificate for the CRM solution;&nbsp;</li><li>mass of sample – calibration certificate for the balance;&nbsp;</li><li>volume of volumetric flask – calibration certificate of the manufacturer;&nbsp;</li><li>drying temperature – calibration of oven temperature;&nbsp;</li><li>digestion conditions – calibration of e.g. temperature;&nbsp;</li><li>drying time – ordinary clock or stopwatch&nbsp;</li></ol>Point 1 would need special attention to assure the quality and traceability for the calibration standard. Traceability for points 2, 3 and 6 is easily achieved with adequate uncertainty using commercial equipment.&nbsp;Points 4 and 5 need additional attention by the lab.&nbsp;The use of the matrix CRM in the method validation is vital but not part of the traceability chain, since it is not used for calibration. If this CRM is used for recovery correction it should be part of the traceability chain.&nbsp;<h4>Measurement quality&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Method validation demonstrates that the method (set of conditions) used in a particular laboratory at a certain time was fit for purpose and all significant effects were identified.&nbsp;</li><li>Calibration of critical equipment completes the metrological traceability chains.</li><li>Measurement uncertainty is estimated from the method validation and the traceability.&nbsp;</li><li>Quality control (internal and external) assures that the measurement results (including uncertainty) are of the same quality as at the time of validation.</li></ul><h4>Conclusion</h4>The traceability of a measurement result refers to metrological traceability as defined by VIM. It relates the result to SI units or other agreed standards/references.&nbsp;Traceability is essential for comparability of results and is a requirement of ISO/IEC 17025. Traceability is easily achieved following good laboratory practice.

Metrological Traceability of Analytical Results

Scientific conferences are defined not only by the quality of the research presented but also by the expertise and vision of their invited speakers. RAFA 2026 brings together internationally recognized scientists from academia, industry, and regulatory organizations to address some of today's most pressing challenges in food analysis and food safety. Their lectures will explore cutting-edge analytical techniques, emerging contaminants, food authenticity, artificial intelligence, high-resolution mass spectrometry, allergen risk assessment, PFAS, microplastics, mycotoxins, and many other topics shaping the future of food analysis. This overview introduces the distinguished invited speakers and the scientific highlights they will present at RAFA 2026.<h3>Registration</h3><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/">Register to attend RAFA 2026!</a></blockquote><h4>Registration Fees</h4><ul><li>Regular registration (Until 30 September, 2026): € 855</li><li>Late registration (From 1 October, 2026): € 955</li><li>Student rate* (From 1 July, 2026): € 605</li></ul>* The proof of student status (e.g. copy of a student identify card) is requested as an attachment of the registration form.<h5>The regular registration fee will include:</h5><ul><li>Attendance at all scientific sessions, workshops, seminars, vendor seminars and other satellite events</li><li>Access to the poster and exhibition area</li><li>Conference kit (name badge, conference bag, conference documents, certificate of participation, certificate of presentation on request)</li><li>Final programme</li><li>E-Book of Abstracts</li><li>Coffee breaks</li><li>Buffet luncheons</li><li>Welcome drink</li></ul>In the registration form you can register free of charge for the welcome drink and you can also order ticket(s) for the conference dinner (€ 85).Please note that your registration is firm when your payment has been received.<h3>Abstract submission</h3><blockquote>👉<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://rafa.easyevent.eu/tickets/">Submit your ABSTRACT HERE!</a>In order to submit an abstract, you must first register to attend RAFA 2026. After registration you will receive an access to the Member section where you can submit your abstract(s).</blockquote>&nbsp;After successful submission of your abstract you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt of submitted abstract via e-mail. If it will not be delivered within a few minutes after submission of your abstract please check at first your spam box-mail and then contact us at RAFA2026@vscht.cz.<h4>Important notice:</h4><blockquote>1 registered participant can submit no more than 2 abstracts.</blockquote>To apply for a young scientist’s oral presentation, as an indication please respect the rule that you should be born in 1991 or later.The text of the abstract should be limited to 3000 characters including spaces. Tables and pictures are not allowed.<h3>Program</h3><h4>Invited Speakers</h4><h5>It takes a small step to fake food but a giant leap to authenticate</h5><ul><li>Nicolai Zederkopff Ballin from Danish Veterinary, Food, Agriculture and Fisheries Agency, Glostrup, Denmark.</li></ul>It takes a small step to fake food but a giant leap to authenticate”: Exploring unresolved issues in food authentication. Food authentication includes not just analytical chemistry, but also nomenclature, validation procedures and reporting of results. These aspects have attracted increasing focus, but setting limits in food authentication has been largely absent. It is therefore time to discuss how to set maximum tolerable levels to enable consistent and comparable results in food authentication.<h5>Unravelling the mysteries of modified mycotoxins</h5><ul><li>Franz Berthiller from BOKU University, Vienna, Austria</li></ul>Modified mycotoxins are altered forms of mycotoxins, mainly formed by living plants on the field. They are not regulated, yet may contribute to toxicity. The presentations focuses on metabolites of fumonisin B1 and ochratoxin A, formed by maize plants.<h5>From bitter to better: Fixing off-flavors in plant proteins</h5><ul><li>Corinna Dawid from Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany</li></ul>Uncovering the chemistry behind flavor: the presentation explores how Sensomics and NMR interaction studies reveal the complex interplay between aroma compounds, taste perception, and the polymer matrix in wine.<h5>Imaging food: the power and the limits of seeing molecules in food</h5><ul><li>Laura Righetti from Wageningen University &amp; Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands</li></ul>Imaging techniques enable ‘seeing’ molecules in food and elucidating mechanisms of accumulation and transformation, e.g. during processing. However, their application to food and contaminants remains limited. This talk discusses both instrumental constraints and future opportunities.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/RAFA_Laura_Righetti_e7bdda9942.jpg" alt="RAFA: Laura Righetti" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_RAFA_Laura_Righetti_e7bdda9942.jpg 157w," sizes="100vw" width="900" height="895"><h5>Analysis of critical vitamins: novel structures and novel sources</h5><ul><li>Michael Rychlik Lab from Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany</li></ul>Growing population and dietary shifts lead to inadequate intake of folate, B6, and B12. The presentation introduces novel analytical methods (stable isotope dilution assays), identifies new sources, and assesses risks of certain dietary patterns.<h5>Sample-to-solution approaches for natural toxin analysis at the point of need</h5><ul><li>Gert Salentijn from Wageningen University &amp; Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands</li></ul>Taking analysis out of the lab is not trivial. Going beyond merely translating procedures from the lab to an out-of-lab setting, it requires a fundamentally different perspective on how we develop and deploy the tools to provide information at the point-of-need. In this, both the envisioned test, as well as the envisioned user are critical, and all the steps, from sample to solution, need to be considered.<h5>EFSA’s rapid risk assessment of cereulide in infants</h5><ul><li>Hans Steinkellner from European Food Safety Authority, Parma, Italy</li></ul>The EU has established procedures for rapid risk assessment in urgent situations. EFSA’s assessment of cereulide in infants demonstrated its ability to provide robust scientific support within a short timeframe during a crisis.<h5>Comprehensive strategies to unmask masked mycotoxins: from food matrix to gut microbiota</h5><ul><li>Milena Stranska from University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia</li></ul>The lecture will address non-extractable modified mycotoxins and their biological relevance. Bioaccessibility will be assessed using in vitro digestion models with diverse fecal microbiota (toddlers, children, adults) and bioavailability using Caco-2-based intestinal models. High-resolution mass spectrometry will reveal biotransformation pathways and cellular metabolism of free and modified mycotoxins.<h5>Food allergen risk assessment: Past, present, future</h5><ul><li>Ben Remington from Remington Consulting Group B.V., Utrecht, the Netherlands &amp; University of Nebraska, USA</li></ul>Food allergy and allergen management are global public health issues, and consumer protection depends on transparent and trustworthy labelling. While 30 years of scientific advances show that low level exposures, or reference doses, are unlikely to trigger reactions in most allergic individuals, harmonized and globally aligned regulations are still needed to promote consistent allergen risk assessment and labelling decisions. This presentation will discuss the landscape of allergen risk assessment, global policy developments, current research and future needs in the area.<h5>Unmasking hidden adulteration in honey: Strategies for detecting and characterizing honeys produced from sugar-fed colonies</h5><ul><li>Oscar Nuñez Burcio from University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain</li></ul>From hive to jar, not all honey tells the same story. This presentation addresses hidden adulteration associated with sugar-fed bee colonies, highlighting implications for authenticity, production practices, and the need for a more precise characterization of honey to ensure consumer trust.<h5>Analytical and toxicological methods for safety of food contact materials</h5><ul><li>Erich Leitner from Graz University of Technology, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz, Austria</li></ul>Food packaging plays a critical role in protecting and preserving food throughout the supply chain. All packaging materials intended to come into contact with food must comply with strict EU safety rules. Due to increased complexity of packaging solutions, lowering legal limits and increasing numbers of target compounds, we also have to adapt the strategies used to verify and guarantee the safety of these materials.<h5>Data-driven strategies to reduce complexity in non-target HRMS analysis of food samples</h5><ul><li>Anneli Kruve from Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden</li></ul>LC/HRMS based non-target screening can detect hundreds to thousands of chemical features in complex food and environmental samples. Investigating all of these in detail is practically impossible, so which ones to focus on? Novel computational tools developed in computational mass spectrometry allow predicting the toxicity and concentration of the detected chemical features even if these have not yet been fully structurally elucidated. Combining these predictions enables us to focus on the chemical features possessing high risk.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/RAFA_Anneli_Kruve_5119012e5d.jpg" alt="RAFA: Anneli Kruve" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_RAFA_Anneli_Kruve_5119012e5d.jpg 155w," sizes="100vw" width="899" height="900"><h5>Role of AI in the identification of emerging food systems risks</h5><ul><li>Ákos Bernard Jóźwiak from Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary</li></ul>AI-assisted evidence synthesis – spanning curated scientific evidence, exposome data, and network analysis – is the backbone of next-generation emerging chemical food safety risk identification, enabling earlier signals and more resilient surveillance systems.<h5>Challenges of microplastics analysis in the context of food safety</h5><ul><li>Dorte Herzke from Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway</li></ul>Food and food packaging are major sources of micro- and nanoplastic exposure. Plastics used in processing, storage, and packaging can release particles through heat, abrasion, and degradation. Small particles below 2 µm may cross gut barriers and carry chemicals, highlighting the need for robust and sensitive measurement methods.<h5>Never-ending analytical challenges in PFAS analysis of food</h5><ul><li>Darina Dvořáková from University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czechia</li></ul>Exploring and monitoring PFAS in food requires advanced strategies. Combining targeted, suspect, and non-target HRMS analysis, determination of total fluorine and sum parameters, and novel sensors provides new insights into PFAS occurrence and supports food safety monitoring.<h5>An overview of the latest scientific knowledge on process contaminants in food for appropriate risk management measures</h5><ul><li>Thierry Delatour from Nestlé Research, Lausanne, Switzerland.</li></ul>Recent scientific findings related to acrylamide and furans formation, occurrence and analytical methods in food provide important insights for risk management.

Invited Speakers at RAFA 2026 Symposium

Article

Product

Events

Academy

Scientists

RAFA provides an overview of contemporary trends in ANALYTICAL & BIOANALYTICAL STRATEGIES IN FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTROL and discusses CHALLENGES / NOVEL APPROACHES IN FOOD AND NATURAL PRODUCTS ANALYSIS.

Recent Advances in Food Analysis (RAFA)

A unique company dedicated to serving science helping our customers drive productivity and accelerate results. Through our premier brands – Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Eurachem is a European network promoting international traceability of chemical measurements and good analytical practice. It provides expert guidance, supports method validation, uncertainty evaluation, proficiency testing, and facilitates discussion on technical and policy issues in analytical quality.

Eurachem

Agilent Technologies

Bruker

GERSTEL

SelectScience

C&EN

Evosep Biosystems

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to promote alternative methods to animal testing and the EU and a few other countries have even moved to ban the import and sale of cosmetics that have been tested on animals. The Amino acid Derivative Reactivity Assay (ADRA) Method developed by Fujifilm, is an innovative alternative test method for skin sensitization without the use of animals and it was adopted by the OECD in 2022 as a reliable test method.
In this webinar, we will present the technical background of the ADRA method, the use of reagent kits to perform ADRA testing, and our solutions for ADRA analysis that deliver both enhanced selectivity and high-speed testing. Register for this webinar and learn more about how the ADRA method will help you better test the safety of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. 
<h5>Key Learning Objectives:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Outline of the OECD TG442C (ADRA: Amino acid Derivative Reactivity Assay) </li>
<li>Overview of ADRA kits and related products </li>
<li>How to conduct ADRA testing using HPLC</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5>
<ul>
<li>R&amp;D and Manufacturer of Cosmetics </li>
<li>Companies considering Alternative Methods to Animal Testing </li>
<li>Industries interested in Alternative Methods to Animal Testing</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Toshihiko Kasahara, Ph.D. (Safety Eval. Center, ESG Div., Senior Expert, Fujifilm Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Suguru Kitagawa (International Sales, EU Region, Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Ayako Nomura (Analytical Instr. Div., Application Specialist, Shimadzu Corporation)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Melissa O&#39;Meara (Forensic Science Consultant, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

Shimadzu: The Newest Alternative to Animal Testing for Skin Sensitization

The Newest Alternative to Animal Testing for Skin Sensitization

In this webinar, we will present the technical background of the ADRA method and how to conduct ADRA testing using HPLC.

The Alternative to Animal Testing for Skin Sensitization

Join us in this webinar to discuss on basics of GPC technology and respective details of instruments, separations, and parameters in GPC analysis. Along with respective principles and uses for various types of large/polymer samples.
In this webinar, we will discuss:
<ul>
<li>Introduction to GPC</li>
<li>Need of fast GPC and its advantages</li>
<li>Considerations for fast GPC analysis and optimization options</li>
<li>Optimization of various method parameters for good resolution, peak shape and response</li>
<li>Column selection criteria for better results with relevant applications</li>
<li>Agilent columns options for fast GPC analysis</li>
</ul>
By attending this webinar you will learn: How to systematically convert traditional GPC methods to fast GPC, optimize your method parameters for fast GPC analysis and increase lab productivity with proper column selection.
*Attend all 3 sessions and get a digital certificate from Agilent
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Ramaprasad Ganni (Technical Support Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Ramaprasad Ganni has 21 years of experience in the field of Chromatography and Column chemistries. Working with Agilent technologies India, since 2008 in Chemistries and Supplies division. Previously Worked for Elsevier GmbH, and Millipore India Pvt, Ltd. Responsible for Workflow solutions development, providing technical support, and trainings. Experienced in Sample prep, HPLC, GC, Mass spec and GPC Chromatography technologies.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Pace Up with Fast GPC Analysis

Pace Up with Fast GPC Analysis

How to convert traditional GPC methods to fast GPC, optimize method parameters for fast GPC and increase lab productivity with proper column selection.

Join this webinar to learn how to simplify, speed-up, and standardize your proteomics sample preparation for LC-MS.
The PreOmics team will introduce the PreOmics easy-to-use iST technology. This fast 3-step workflow is designed to be a great support for both those new to proteomics and experts alike. The all-in-one iST kits are compatible with a variety of starting materials, including mammalian and plant samples, different types of tissue and cells, as well as various biological fluids in label-free and chemical labelling applications.The protocols promise an incredibly fast processing time (&lt;2.5 hours) and are easily applicable without compromising sample quality or proteomic depth. Furthermore, iST can be fully automated to further increase standardization, reproducibility, and throughput.
The speakers will also introduce PreON, a fully automated sample preparation platform, as well as different levels of automation for established liquid handling platforms. The varying applications for the iST technology ranging from global proteomics to pre-clinical studies will also be discussed.
<h5>Key learning objectives</h5>
<ul>
<li>Discover best practices for proteomics sample preparation with solutions for new users and proteomics experts alike</li>
<li>Learn more about fast, easy, and reliable sample preparation protocols for LC-MS-based proteomics</li>
<li>Explore automation, standardization, and upscaling of proteomics sample preparation</li>
<li>Learn more about the applications of iST sample preparation kits and solutions in global proteomics as well as pre-clinical research</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who should attend?</h5>
<ul>
<li>Users working with proteomics sample preparation for LC-MS:</li>
<li>Researchers, scientists, principal investigators, group leaders and department heads, lab assistants from biotech/pharma industry, CROs, university hospitals as well as academia</li>
<li>Biomedical and clinical scientists in translational and pre-clinical research</li>
<li>Application scientists and technical support</li>
<li>Distributors of sample preparation systems for LC-MS</li>
<li>Scientists looking for a straightforward approach to start with proteomics</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Ingrid Albrecht-Walz (PreOmics GmbH)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Ingrid Albrecht-Walz joined PreOmics in 2022 as Product Manager for Kits &amp; Reagents. She received her Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Munich, Germany, working on the interaction of different viruses. For the past 10 years, Dr. Albrecht-Walz has worked in the field of in vitro diagnostics of infectious diseases. Since proteomics is a highly promising tool for preclinical and diagnostic applications, Dr. Albrecht-Walz decided in 2022 to follow this opportunity at PreOmics.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Vincenzo Romaniello (PreOmics GmbH)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Vincenzo Romaniello joined PreOmics in 2021 as Product Manager for Automation Systems. He received his Ph.D. in molecular physiology from the University of Göttingen, Germany. During the past 5 years, Dr. Romaniello has worked in both technical and application support roles for automated sample preparation workflows with major biotech and human diagnostics scientific suppliers. As a result, he has experience in PreOmics automation solutions, and Tecan and Eppendorf systems.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Zuzana Demianova (PreOmics GmbH)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Dr. Demianova joined PreOmics in 2021 as a Market Development Manager BioPharma and scientific advisor. Assessing proceedings and challenges in the pharma and biopharma field Dr. Demianova introduces PreOmics’ solutions in customer workflows to enable scientific discovery. She thereby partakes also in the development and market introduction of new products as well as optimization and application of established solutions. Prior to PreOmics, Dr. Demianova was application support specialist at Sciex, concentrating on customer support and training. Later on, she was promoted to a global leader in proteomics, which finally led up to her new role as a biopharma application scientist with a focus on “-omics” and biopharma applications using CE and LC-MS technologies.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Blake Forman (SelectScience)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Blake studied chemistry at the University of Surrey, UK, and further went on to study a master’s in chemistry at the University of Southampton, UK. Blake has previously worked in the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) lab at LGC and as a technical sales specialist for Waters. As a member of the Editorial team, he now plays an integral role in shaping the content on SelectScience.
</blockquote>

SelectScience: Next generation solutions for proteomics sample preparation

Next generation solutions for proteomics sample preparation

Join this webinar to learn how to simplify, speed-up, and standardize your proteomics sample preparation for LC-MS.

Dear user and other PaSER interested customers,
You are hereby invited to our 2nd Virtual PaSER Workshop. A lot of new possibilities has been introduced since last time – including, but not limited to PaSER Novor for de novo sequencing of dda-PASEF® data on the PaSER Box as well as TIMS DIA-NN 2.0 -which will be demonstrated during this Workshop. Data virtualization has been a requested feature – and this is now possible with Mass Dynamics for PaSER. Not limited to above – stay tuned for even more approaching features, we will discuss as well.
<h3>The tentative agenda looks like this:</h3>
<h5>1:00 – 1:15 pm: Introduction</h5>
<ul>
<li>Willy Bjørklund</li>
</ul>
<h5>1:15 – 1: 35pm: New Applications on the timsTOF Platform</h5>
<ul>
<li>Lars Kristensen (Field Application Specialist)</li>
</ul>
<h5>1:35 – 1:55 pm: PaSER as a bioinformatic platform - what’s new and what’s coming</h5>
<ul>
<li>Jonathan Krieger (Software R&amp;D Department)</li>
</ul>
<h5>5 minute break</h5>
<h5>2:00 – 2:20 pm: Live Demo/workshop of PaSER</h5>
<ul>
<li>Tharan Srikumar (Software R&amp;D Department)</li>
</ul>
<h5>2:20 – 2:50 pm: Mass Dynamics</h5>
<ul>
<li>Mark Condina and Giuseppe Infusini</li>
</ul>
<h5>2:50 – 3:10 pm: Questions and discussions</h5>
<h5>3:10 – 3:15 pm: Conclusion</h5>
<ul>
<li>Willy Bjørklund</li>
</ul>
We aim for a lively interaction so take the timing as an indication. Please feel free to share with colleagues or others you think could benefit from attending this workshop. Looking forward to “meet”

Bruker Virtual PaSER Workshop

Dear user and other PaSER interested customers, You are hereby invited to our 2nd Virtual PaSER Workshop. 

Get ready for Nitrosamines - The LC/MS Edge, a series of virtual connect that explores the latest updates, insights, and technical knowledge on nitrosamines in India.
Join us for the first session, focused on the growing concern of nitrosamines in the Indian pharmaceutical industry. Learn about the perspective of Indian Pharmacopoeia on regulation, evolving market landscape, growth opportunities and the role of LC-MS/MS in nitrosamine assessment studies. Experts will discuss the perspectives of evolving regulations and how companies can adapt these solutions, followed by a Q&amp;A discussion. Nitrosamines pose a significant risk to public health, making it crucial for companies to be aware of the latest regulations and market trends. Stay ahead of the curve and ensure compliance with latest regulatory requirements. Don&#39;t miss out on this valuable opportunity. 
Why should you attend?
<ul>
<li>Gain insights into the perspective of Indian Pharmacopoeia on assessment of nitrosamines.</li>
<li>Understand the current market landscape and growth opportunities.</li>
<li>Learn about compliance requirements and how to navigate them.</li>
<li>Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and updates related to nitrosamines in India.</li>
<li>Improve your professional development &amp; scientific understanding by enhancing your knowledge and skills related to nitrosamines assessment workflows and LC/MS.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Mr. Arvind Kumar Sharma (Scientific Assistant, Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare - Government of India)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
With six years of experience as a Scientific Assistant at Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, he has played a key role in the current development of Indian Pharmacopoeia Reference Substances (IPRS) and Impurity Reference Substances. He has been engaged in the preparation and updating of draft monographs for publishing in Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP). Additionally, he has played a major role in the development of the latest edition of the National Formulary of India 2021 and has been involved in work related to the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI). He holds a a M. Pharmacy in Pharmacology from Sinhgad Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pune and a B. Pharmacy from the College of Pharmacy, IPS Academy Indore. He has authored several articles published in international journals and organized and represented IPC at various national and international conferences and workshops. He has also participated in joint inspections for registration of manufacturing units and testing laboratories.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr Kuldeep Sharma (Sales Development Manager - Pharma, Agilent Technologies India Pvt Ltd)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Kuldeep Sharma has over 19 years of experience in area/s of Bioanalytical research, Drug metabolism &amp; pharmacokinetics and Pharma regulatory compliance. He has accomplished PhD in Biotechnology. His professional journey covers over 12 years in Analytical research (associated with R&amp;D’s of Zydus Cadila, Lambda, Pliva and Jubilant Biosys) and last 7 years in analytical instruments sales, marketing &amp; business development. With over 21 research articles published in international Journals, He presents convention of continues learning.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Nitrosamines - The LC/MS Edge 1st Edition: Indian Pharmaceutical Industry Perspective & Evolving Regulatory Landscape

Nitrosamines - The LC/MS Edge 1st Edition: Indian Pharmaceutical Industry Perspective & Evolving Regulatory Landscape

Join us for the first session, focused on the growing concern of nitrosamines in the Indian pharmaceutical industry.

Nitrosamines - The LC/MS Edge 1st Edition

<ul>
<li>Wait what?! Who knew!? There are so many things that a mass spec can do.
</li>
<li>I&#39;ve used it for years, yes this may be true.
</li>
<li>I&#39;ve processed some samples, more than a few.
</li>
<li>But between me and you, I had no idea all the things it could do!
</li>
<li>From sample prep to separation, you just won&#39;t believe…
</li>
<li>All of the tips and tricks we have up our sleeve.
</li>
<li>So, take a few minutes, about 15 should do.
</li>
<li>And learn all the things your mass spec can do.
</li>
</ul>
An easy to follow guide detailing how to set MS scan parameters for an LCMS experiment will be presented. Scan speeds for reproducible quantitation, chromatographic resolution, retention time definition, proper threshold adjustment for optimum datafile size, and how this can result in faster processing times will all be discussed.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Rebecca Glaskin, Ph.D. (LC/MS Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Rebecca Glaskin is an LC/MS Application Scientist at Agilent with a focus on BioPharma applications supporting the LC-Q/TOF and IM-QTOF platforms. Prior to joining Agilent, Rebecca received her Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from Indiana University in the lab of Professor David Clemmer. While there she designed and constructed home-built instruments, pushing the limits of the mobility resolution that can be obtained with a circular drift tube for the separation of biomolecules (peptides, proteins, carbohydrates, and metabolites). While there, she also studied hydrogen/deuterium exchange of proteins in the gas-phase as a function of time and pressure. Rebecca then went to Boston University as a Postdoctoral Associate in the lab of Professor Catherine Costello to develop a database containing collision cross section values for glycans, peptides, and glycopeptides utilizing Agilent Technologies 6560 IM-QTOF. This database can be used to determine how the collision cross section is altered with the addition of individual saccharide units. The trendlines obtained from this database will be used to predict collision cross sections for glycopeptides based on the conformation and structure of the specific glycoform.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Jim Lau, PhD (HRAMS LC/MS Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Jim Lau received his Ph.D. From the University of Colorado. There he worked in the laboratories of Peter Albersheim and Robert Shapiro. This work involved the structure elucidation of plant natural products and, in particular, elucidating the structures of oligosaccharides derived from plant cell wall polysaccharides. This work was done in the early days of LCMS and made use of DLI-LCMS and (at the time) recently invented Thermospray-LCMS.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
After the completion of his Ph.D., Jim joined Hewlett-Packard to work on LCMS ionization techniques with Paul Goodley during the early days of Electrospray-LCMS. He then moved to work on field applications and collaborations with Hewlett-Packard’s LCMS customers. More than 30 years later, Jim continues to work with Agilent’s customers in High Resolution Accurate Mass applications of LCMS. While involved in many areas of HRAMS LCMS, his recent work has focused on the area of Screening/Qual&amp;Quant of small molecules and on the high throughput confirmation of oligonucleotide synthesis.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: How to set MS Scan Parameters for your LCMS Experiment

How to set MS Scan Parameters for your LCMS Experiment

An easy to follow guide detailing how to set MS scan parameters for an LCMS experiment will be presented.

Targeted workflows are particularly interesting for identifying established biomarkers in various applications. The focus on these workflows, coupled with technological advancements, is continually expanding the boundaries of high-throughput targeted analysis.
<h3>Next Generation of absolute protein Quantitation in Biological Matrixes; higher multiplexicity while faster, robust and sensitive</h3>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dr. Christoph Borchers (Mcgill university)</li>
</ul>
The accurate and rapid determination of protein concentrations using multiplexed multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) with isotope-labeled internal standards has the potential to revolutionize biochemistry and medical sciences. The combination of an Evosep One LC with an Agilent QQQ6495C allows a several-fold reduction of analysis time while maintaining high multiplexicity. As an example, we show the use of a multi-protein method for the absolute quantitation of 270 proteins, combined with metabolomics and Artificial Intelligence (AI), to analyze the plasma of a COVID cohort for prediction of survival. Moreover, optimization of the Evosep/6495C combination allowed adaptation of the 270-protein MRM method to a 24-minute gradient, thus doubling the throughput compared to before.
<h3>Development of a LC-MS/MS Method for Measurement of Fusion Sarcoma Proteins in Plasma</h3>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Phd. AnThony Maus (Clinical Mass Spec. Development Laboratory, Mayo Clinic)</li>
</ul>
Sarcoma is general term for a group of over 70 cancers that are classified using genomic techniques to identify characteristic gene fusions in tumor tissues. However, this technique requires relatively invasive biopsies and is not conducive to monitoring disease progression or response to treatment. Measurements of fusion protein biomarkers in plasma would overcome these limitations. We sought to develop an LC-MS/MS method capable of performing these measurements by conducting discovery experiments on cell lines with an EvoSep coupled to an Exploris 480 mass spectrometer. Using these data, we developed a targeted method and performed measurements in plasma samples.

Targeted Workflows

Targeted workflows are particularly interesting for identifying established biomarkers in various applications.

Targeted LC/MS Workflows

Webinar in collaboration with the Polish Society of Metabolomics.
<h3>14:00 - 14:20 Benefits of Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry (TIMS) for Metabolomics and Lipidomics</h3>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dr. Stefanie Wernisch ( Business Development Manager Metabolomics/Multiomics, Bruker Daltonics Bremen, Germany)</li>
</ul>
After revolutionizing the area of proteomics, trapped ion mobility spectrometry (TIMS) is now conquering the fields of metabolomics and lipidomics. Bruker&#39;s unique timsTOF technology addresses the complexity of biological samples by adding an orthogonal dimension of separation before mass spectrometric analysis, thus reducing the complexity of MS/MS data and improving annotation confidence for untargeted analysis. The ability to determine Collisional Cross Sections (CCS) can further aid identification and outlier detection in lipidomics studies.
<h3>14:20 - 14:40 SpatialOMx® for in-depth 4D-Lipidomics™</h3>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dr. Janina Oetjen (Application Specialist MALDI Imaging, Bruker Daltonics Bremen, Germany)</li>
</ul>
The combined possibilities of ESI and MALDI in one instrument enables powerful SpatialOMx® applications. In short, ion mobility-based annotation can connect confident LC-TIMS-MS/MS identification with meaningful spatial information from MALDI Imaging, specifically in the field of lipidomics. Further, segmentation results based on lipid imaging can define specific regions of interest for subsequent, in-depth analysis. Thus, the information content of MALDI Imaging can be enhanced with SpatialOMx® workflows on the timsTOF fleX platform.
<h3>14:40 - 15:00 Application Round-up: 4D-Metabolomics™ and 4D-Lipidomics™</h3>
<ul>
<li>Presenter: Dr. Matthias Szesny (Application Scientist Metabolomics, Bruker Daltonics Bremen, Germany)</li>
</ul>
We will highlight the capabilities of the timsTOF platform and introduce new applications, method developments, and software solutions in the field of metabolomics and lipidomics. Those help scientists gain a faster and deeper understanding of diverse research areas such as health and disease as well as agriculture.

Bruker: Expanding the Horizons of 4D-Metabolomics and 4D-Lipidomics

Expanding the Horizons of 4D-Metabolomics and 4D-Lipidomics

Benefits of TIMS for Metabolomics and Lipidomics. SpatialOMx for in-depth 4D-Lipidomics, Application Round-up: 4D-Metabolomics and 4D-Lipidomics.

Learn how to automate your SPE procedures with the LCTech FREESTYLE™ system for various sample types.
Presenter: Fred Foster (Applications Scientist)

GERSTEL: Automation of Solid Phase Extraction Procedures using a Novel Robotic Automation Platform

Automation of Solid Phase Extraction Procedures using a Novel Robotic Automation Platform

Learn how to automate your SPE procedures with the LCTech FREESTYLE™ system for various sample types.

Automation of Solid Phase Extraction - Automation Platform

The solubility of orally administered drugs is highly influenced by the composition of the intestinal fluids, the presence of fatty acids and cholesterol, and the pH. All these factors can be affected by the individual’s diet (food effect). Typical biorelevant studies, however, fail to capture food effects as the experiments are commonly performed on fixed simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) compositions. Consequently, accurate prediction of the food effect observed in clinical studies is hindered due to lack of reliable data for the model.Here, we propose a high-throughput automated workflow for the study of API solubility in complex, ad hoc biorelevant media, and the implementation of the data obtained in vitro into a Physiologically Based Biopharmaceutic Model (PBBM) used to predict the food effect on a BCS IV zwitterionic drug. The automated workflow led to considerable time and material savings, while the model accurately predicted the results of the food effect.Key Learning Objectives:<ul><li>Determination of food effect, through use of complex biorelevant media, to describe and predict clinical data</li><li>Automated preparation of ad hoc complex biorelevant media</li><li>Automated in vitro biorelevant solubility screen of an API</li><li>Integration of in vitro solubility and permeability into a Physiologically</li><li>Based Biopharmaceutic Model (PBBM)</li></ul>Who Should Attend:<ul><li>Scientist, Sr. Scientist, Development Chemist, Formulation Chemist, Process Chemist, (Directors of preceding), Research Fellow, Professor</li><li>Product Development Scientists, Biochemist</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter:&nbsp;Paola Ferrini (Investigator, High-Throughput Automation Team, GSK)Presenter: Konstantinos Stamatopoulos (Biopharmaceutics Investigator, GSK)Presenter: Catherine Dold (Health &amp; Environment Writer, C&amp;EN Media Group)</blockquote>

C&EN: Automated In Vitro Sample Preparation for PBBM to Predict Food Effect on Oral Drugs

Automated In Vitro Sample Preparation for PBBM to Predict Food Effect on Oral Drugs

We propose a high-throughput automated workflow for the study of API solubility in complex, ad hoc biorelevant media.