Professor Michaela Rumlová, head of a research group of the National Institute of Virology and Bacteriology at UCT Prague (and Vice-Rector for doctoral studies), holder of a licensed patent &nbsp;for antiretroviral testing assays, and recipient of the Czech Science Foundation’s President’s Award for HIV research, has also become the principal investigator of the bilateral INTER-EXCELLENCE II project “Cellular factors regulating the export and packaging of unspliced ​​retroviral RNA”, starting this year. In this interview, she explains how retroviruses such as HIV “hack” the cell in order to export their own genome from the nucleus into the cytoplasm, and then to the site where it is specifically packaged into nascent viral particles, a key step in viral replication. Her team is collaborating with the NIH (National Institutes of Health) and Rockefeller University to elucidate mechanisms that may help reveal new vulnerable points in the retrovirus replication cycle while simultaneously clarifying related cellular processes.<h5>Could you describe your project and its main objectives?</h5>Retroviruses, such as HIV, are viruses that carry genetic information in the form of RNA; however, after entering a cell, they are able to reverse transcribe it into DNA and integrate it into the host genome. In order to replicate, they must transport their genetic information—in the form of unspliced RNA—from the nucleus into the cytosol. There, it serves both as a template for the production of viral proteins and as the genome of new viral particles. This is highly unusual, as the cell very carefully controls which RNA molecules are allowed to leave the nucleus. Normal protein-coding cellular RNAs, known as messenger RNAs (mRNAs), must undergo splicing—a processing step in which certain segments are removed—before being exported. When this process fails, mRNA that retains these segments is held back in the nucleus as part of quality control and subsequently degraded. Retroviruses have managed to outwit this cellular control machinery, allowing their unspliced RNA to pass into the cytoplasm.Our project focuses on identifying the cellular proteins that assist retroviruses in this step and on the mechanism by which protein complexes bound to viral RNA are remodelled during RNA transport. The goal is to understand how the virus uses cellular mechanisms to its advantage and how this pathway is linked to the subsequent fate of the RNA, i.e. to its translation and packaging into new viral particles.<h5>Why is this export of unspliced ​​RNA so important for retroviral replication?</h5>Because this RNA has a dual role for the virus. On the one hand, it serves as a template for synthesizing viral proteins in the cytoplasm; on the other, it represents the genetic material itself, which must be packaged into new viral particles. The virus must package its RNA genome in its unspliced form, as only this RNA contains essential sequences without which further viral replication would be impossible.Simply put: the virus needs to get a complete copy of its genetic instructions out of the nucleus. Once the viral RNA is in the cytoplasm, it can be used as a template for synthesizing viral proteins; and a portion of these RNA molecules is then selected and packaged into a new particle as a genome. We are interested in how the virus forces the cell to allow viral RNA that is, from the cell’s perspective, “unfinished,” that is unspliced, to leave the nucleus. We are also investigating how the cell and the virus together - albeit unintentionally from the cell’s perspective - determine which RNA molecule will be translated into proteins and which will be packaged as the genome. This is one of the key, yet still not fully understood, steps of retroviral replication.<h5>What do you think it was about your project that impressed the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports’ jury the most?</h5>I believe the decisive factor was a combination of several elements. First, the reviewers were primarily interested in the scientific problem itself. We are investigating a mechanism that is essential for retroviruses, but still not sufficiently understood, which may also have broader implications for the regulation of cellular processes. In addition, the quality of the team, our strong collaboration with the NIH and Rockefeller University, and the use of modern methods that will allow us to track viral RNA in great detail also played a role. It was also important that the project has clear objectives and a realistic plan.<h5>How will this research contribute to the development of new treatments for retroviral infections?</h5>It is important to say that this is primarily basic research. Rather than developing a new drug directly, we are trying to understand, at the molecular level, the step that the virus cannot do without. Only when we fully understand the mechanism of these cellular processes and identify the essential factors for the export of unspliced ​​RNA and how they function, will we be able to better determine which interactions or mechanisms represent potentially vulnerable points. Similar mechanisms associated with the export of unspliced ​​mRNA also appear in some diseases, such as cancer, so I &nbsp;see the benefit of our research mainly in that it will refine our understanding of these pathological processes in the cell, and retroviruses help us do so. Therefore, our work on retroviruses not only shows us how the virus works, but also how the cell itself works.<h5>What responsibilities does your UCT Prague team have? How does the collaboration with your American partners work?</h5>At UCT Prague, we are conducting the project’s primary experimental work. Our research involves cell cultures, viral models, and various biochemical techniques ranging from immunochemistry to microscopy that allow us to track viral RNA and identify its cellular partners. In collaboration with colleagues from NIH, Frederick, we are developing single-particle tracking methods to observe viral RNA movement in living cells across both space and time. Furthermore, we are working with colleagues from Rockefeller University to employ iCLIP methods for the precise mapping of protein-binding sites on RNA. Both collaborations are valuable to us, because they are not just about data sharing, but also about the transfer of expertise and detailed know-how.<h5>Who else is collaborating on the project?</h5>At UCT Prague, we collaborate closely with the Department of Biotechnology and the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology. Externally, we work with colleagues from the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS (IOCB Prague) and the Central European Institute of Technology in Brno (CEITEC). Our research naturally necessitates the integration of diverse fields of expertise; it requires combining virology, cell biology, and biochemistry with advanced imaging and modern approaches to study RNA-protein interactions. This is exactly what makes our project capable of addressing complex questions that a single laboratory cannot tackle on its own.<h5>Are there plans to continue the project? Have you brought on new collaborators, and are you looking to welcome new colleagues to the team?</h5>Yes, definitely. In basic research, it often happens that one answered question opens up several more. High-quality, properly interpreted data provide a foundation you can build on — and that is what moves scientists forward. It is already clear that the topic of retroviral RNA export and packaging has broader implications and may reveal more general principles of how RNA functions within the cell. We also hope the project will be attractive to students, as it connects classical molecular biology, biochemistry, and virology with cutting-edge biotechnological methods. Students are already involved in the project as part of their bachelor’s and master’s theses.<h5>What was the personal turning point that motivated you to pursue a long-term investigation into retroviral particles?</h5>I first encountered retroviruses in the early 1990s during my diploma thesis, when I was working at IOCB Prague on HIV-1 protease inhibitors. At that time, AIDS could not yet be effectively treated, and retrovirus research had a completely different dimension. From the very beginning, I was fascinated by how such a relatively small and simple virus can outsmart evolutionarily highly optimized cellular processes and turn them to its own advantage. And that has never stopped fascinating me. From a scientific point of view, retroviruses are remarkable; just consider one of their enzymes, reverse transcriptase, without which no diagnostic or research laboratory in the world could function today. Without it, it would be impossible to diagnose RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2, influenza, or HIV using RT-PCR tests, or, for example to produce recombinant human proteins in bacterial cells.

Tracking unspliced RNA: Professor Rumlová studies how retroviruses “hack” cells

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 20, 2026

🎤Lindsay Repka&nbsp;Lindsay Repka is a chemistry professor at Middlebury College whose research explores photoredox chemistry, catalyst stability, and visible-light-driven transformations. Her lab emphasizes both mechanistic insight and hands-on student training in advanced analytical instrumentation.In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, we sit down with Lindsay Repka to discuss how LC-MS and GC-MS transformed her lab’s approach to photoredox chemistry.What began as a project to develop a visible-light photocrosslinking handle unexpectedly led to a major discovery: the solvent (DMF) was reacting with the photocatalyst itself. Using high-resolution LC-MS, Lindsay’s team observed multiple solvent adducts forming — sometimes with complete catalyst consumption. That discovery reshaped their research direction.This episode is a rare deep dive into both LC-MS and GC-MS within the same research project, showing how chromatography-driven insight can turn unexpected degradation into productive new reactivity.If you work in:<ul><li>Photoredox chemistry</li><li>Reaction optimization</li><li>Mass spectrometry method development</li><li>Catalyst screening</li><li>Academic synthetic chemistry</li></ul>…this conversation will resonate.<h4>Key Topics Covered</h4><ul><li>Photocatalyst stability in DMF, DCE, and MeCN</li><li>Demethylation under mild visible-light conditions</li><li>High-resolution Q-TOF LC-MS quantitation</li><li>Internal standard methodology in GC-MS</li><li>Signal-to-noise improvement using extracted ion chromatograms</li><li>Reaction reproducibility and quality control strategy</li></ul><h3>Video Transcription</h3>In this interview, Lindsay Repka discusses the role of photoredox chemistry in method development, photocrosslinking, solvent activation, catalyst stability, and the use of LC-MS and GC-MS to understand reaction pathways.<h4>What is photoredox chemistry?</h4>Photoredox chemistry uses light to activate a photocatalyst, which can either donate or accept an electron from a substrate. This generates radical species that can undergo new types of reactivity.Repka explains that one of the key advantages of photoredox chemistry is its ability to operate under mild conditions, often using visible light. This makes it attractive for sensitive molecules and biological systems, including potential applications in drug release, live-cell chemistry, and drug development.<h4>Photocrosslinking and drug-target interactions</h4>Repka’s group initially aimed to develop visible-light photocrosslinking methods to study drug interactions with biological targets. Photocrosslinking can covalently link a drug to its target, making it easier to identify the biological target of a compound.Traditional photocrosslinking often uses UV light, but visible light offers milder and more biologically compatible conditions.<h4>From photocrosslinking to solvent activation</h4>The project shifted direction when the desired photocrosslinking reactions gave very low yields. Instead of reacting with amino acids as intended, the radical intermediate mainly reacted with itself.The team explored different solvents to stabilize the radical, but found that some solvents, such as DMF, were not inert. Instead, the solvent reacted with the photocatalyst or radical species, revealing unexpected solvent activation chemistry.<h4>Why LC-MS was critical</h4>LC-MS became essential because the reaction mixtures were too complex and low-yielding for NMR or GC-MS. High-resolution LC-MS allowed the team to detect minor products, identify photocatalyst modifications, and observe solvent addition products with high confidence.Repka emphasizes that LC-MS was both a qualitative and quantitative tool. It was used quantitatively to measure how much photocatalyst remained after light exposure, and qualitatively to identify degradation products and new reactivity pathways.<h4>Photocatalyst stability workflow</h4>The team developed a systematic workflow to evaluate photocatalyst stability under light exposure. Because catalyst degradation was time-sensitive, reproducibility required strict control of experimental conditions.Key steps included using a glove box, commercial deoxygenated solvents, accurate weighing on a microbalance, controlled light exposure in a photoreactor, and temperature control with a chiller. These precautions helped reduce day-to-day variability and enabled reproducible measurements of catalyst remaining.<h4>Quantifying catalyst remaining by LC-MS</h4>Calibration curves were prepared using pure photocatalyst solutions and LC-MS ion areas. The team worked in the nanomolar range to maintain linearity.Instead of relying only on total ion chromatograms, they used extracted ion chromatograms (EICs) to improve signal-to-noise for the photocatalyst signal. Baseline subtraction was also applied to reduce noise and improve quantitation at low concentrations.Calibration curves and quality control samples were prepared and measured on the same day as the reaction samples, because LC-MS signal intensity can vary significantly from day to day.<h4>Why GC-MS was used later</h4>For demethylation studies, the group moved to GC-MS because the substrates and products were small and volatile enough for gas chromatography. GC-MS was better suited for rapidly screening many reaction conditions, including different photocatalysts, solvents, and oxidants.Instead of generating full calibration curves for every experiment, the team used an internal standard to streamline analysis and determine percent conversion based on relative response factors.<h4>Practical lessons from the project</h4>Repka highlights the importance of careful sample preparation, especially when working with very small quantities of photocatalysts. A high-quality microbalance, stable granite platform, antistatic tools, and aluminum weigh boats improved weighing accuracy and reproducibility.She also argues that mass spectrometry should be a standard part of photoredox method development because it can reveal minor products, support reaction optimization, and provide insights that may be difficult or impossible to obtain by NMR alone.<h4>Final perspective</h4>Beyond the chemistry, Repka emphasizes the importance of student training and mentoring. For her, research is not only about discovering new reactivity but also about giving students practical experience, helping them develop independence, and preparing them for future scientific careers.<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>

Using LC-MS & GC-MS to Decode Photoredox Catalyst Stability

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<h3>Solving Problems That Matter - a Waters webinar series featuring USP speakers</h3><h4>Episode 8: Lipid nanoparticles</h4><div class="summary-section section">Developing safe, compliant and efficacious lipid nanoparticles (LNP) requires adequate testing of the individual lipid components and impurities. In this webinar Anni Chang from the USP Excipient team will share current and future excipient solution approaches and describe how the USP provides support for stakeholders in discovery and early-stage development. Then Duanduan Han will discuss the benefits of mass detection for critical impurities analysis, and Empower software workflows for compliant and straightforward method migration from development to QC labs. Duanduan will also highlight how multi-angle light scattering (MALS) detection can be used to characterize the LNP.<h5>Key learning objectives</h5><ul><li>Explore current and future USP solutions for lipid nanoparticles (LNP)</li><li>Learn how mass detection and Empower software-based workflows expedite and enhance routine testing of LNP components and impurities</li><li>Discover orthogonal insights enabled by multi-angle light scattering detection (MALS)</li></ul><h5>Who should attend</h5>Scientists involved with lipid nanoparticle analysis<blockquote>Presenter: Anni Chang, Ph.D. (Sr Scientist II, Excipients Unit, US Pharmacopeia)Dr. Anni Chang is currently a Senior Scientist II in the Excipients unit at the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). In her current role, she is responsible for developing, revising, and modernizing USP monographs. One of her focus areas is lipid excipients used in nanomaterial carriers.Dr. Chang has more than 15 years of experience in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry in analytical method development, validation, and transfer. She received her Ph.D. in Chemistry from University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA. Dr. Chang is also active in the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists and serves as a Member Engagement Manager in the Lipid Based Drug Delivery community.Presenter: Duanduan Han, Ph.D. (Senior Scientist QA/QC Biologics Solutions group, Waters Corporation)Duanduan is a Senior Scientist in the QA/QC Biologics Solutions group at Waters Corporation headquarters in Milford, MA. She joined Waters in 2021, and she has focused on LC method development in composition analysis, impurity profiling, and raw material screening of lipid nanoparticle components and products. Additionally, she has explored other subjects of pharmaceutical analysis including surfactant, protein, and peptide. Prior to joining Waters, she received her PhD in chemical engineering from Texas A&amp;M University.Presenter: Panelist: Martin Kurnik, Ph.D. (Senior Scientist, Analytical Sciences, Waters | Wyatt Technology​)Martin Kurnik is a senior scientist in the Analytical Sciences team at Waters | Wyatt Technology. He helps customers identify and develop the best solutions for their analytical needs by leveraging his expertise in multi-angle light scattering and dynamic light scattering as well as a wide range of other leading techniques for biomolecular characterization. His postdoctoral research in protein folding and misfolding biophysics focused on understanding and preventing misfolding in bulk solution and on artificial surfaces used in medicine and biotechnology, and he has also developed protein- and aptamer-based electrochemical biosensors for continuous real-time measurements in vitro and in vivo. Martin received his M.Sc. in Chemistry and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Stockholm University, Sweden.Moderated by: Isabelle Vu Trieu (Pharmaceutical Market Development Manager, Americas, Waters Corporation)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></div>

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

Lipid nanoparticles

Solving Problems That Matter - a Waters webinar series featuring USP speakers. Episode 8: Complex excipients: Lipid nanoparticles.

Complex excipients: Lipid nanoparticles

As part of the global effort to reduce CO₂ emissions, biofuels are becoming an increasingly important source of green energy.
Quality control testing of biofuels is therefore crucial to ensure the efficiency and reliability of biogas, biodiesel, and fuel ethanol. 
In this webinar you will learn about the latest laboratory testing techniques that are used to ensure the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of modern biofuels to enable producers to confidently meet international regulatory requirements and to promote their widespread adoption in both industry and the wider society at large. 
Experts from Agilent Technologies will introduce a wide range of analytical testing solutions covering multiple technologies that are routinely used to detect organic and inorganic impurities in biodiesel and enable the stringent quality control of fuel ethanol, biogas and biogas blends to be achieved. The expert panel will be available to answer questions from the audience at the end of the presentation. 
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Presenter: Danny van Oevelen (LC Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
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Presenter: Luca Godina (GC &amp; GC/MS Application Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
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Presenter: Sebastien Sannac (Spécialiste produit spectroscopie atomique, Agilent Technologies)
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Presenter: Donald Inglis (Product Specialist EMEAI for FTIR, Agilent Technologies)
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Presenter: Remko van Loon (GC &amp; GC/MS Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
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Agilent Technologies: Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels to Ensure a Greener, more Sustainable Future

Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels to Ensure a Greener, more Sustainable Future

Learn about the latest laboratory testing techniques that are used to ensure the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of modern biofuels.

Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels

Learn how Light Scattering can benefit your drug development!
The scientific community aims to enhance transparency and reliability in published research, with a specific focus on the quality of biological reagents, notably recombinant proteins. Concerns have been raised regarding irreproducible results, prompting discussions on common quality issues associated with recombinant proteins and their impact on downstream applications. In response, professionals in protein purification and characterization have collaboratively developed guidelines for improved quality control.
These guidelines include minimal information requirements for protein identity, production parameters, and long-term stability, as well as a minimal set of quality tests for purity, homogeneity, and identity. Additional recommendations cover DNA contamination, “spectral and thermal denaturation signatures”, homogeneity, “competent fraction”, storage conditions, batch-to-batch reproducibility, and other factors based on intended applications. 
Evaluation of these guidelines over a one-year period suggests that their implementation can enhance experimental reliability and optimize protein quality. Investing in protein QC benefits all stakeholders in life sciences, including researchers, editors, and funding agencies, by improving data accuracy and minimizing resource wastage
Key learning topics:
<ul>
<li>The latest guidelines for Quality control of Protein purification and characterisation 
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<li>How these guidelines can enhance reliability and improve protein quality in your labs
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<li>How to reduce wastage and improve data accuracy in protein quality control
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</ul>
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Lab Managers and Scientists working in upstream recombinant protein production and QC
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<li>Lab Managers and Scientists working in downstream protein purification QC
</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Dr. André Matagne (Full Professor, University of Liège, Belgium)
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Dr. Matange is a Full Professor at the University of Liège, Belgium, where he is the chair at the Centre for Protein Engineering within the Faculty of Sciences.
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With a background in biochemistry, his research is primarily focused on proteins, particularly exploring their folding, stability, and biological activity. Notably, he has played a pivotal role in the development of Robotein®, an advanced technological platform designed for to high throughput protein expression, purification, formulation, and analysis.
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Since 2016, Dr.Matagnehas been honored as an elected titular member of the Royal Academy of Sciences in Belgium.
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Waters Corporation: Quality Control of Purified Proteins to Improve Research Data Reproducibility: Improving the Time-Efficiency and Quality of Your Results​

Quality Control of Purified Proteins to Improve Research Data Reproducibility: Improving the Time-Efficiency and Quality of Your Results​

Learn how Light Scattering can benefit your drug development.

Quality Control of Purified Proteins to Improve Research

<h4>Live from the Lab hosted by NIBRT: Solutions for biotherapeutic analysis</h4>
By your side to accelerate your biopharmaceutical development journey
Join us for the second Live from the Lab of 2024, taking place on September 17th, an exciting biopharma hybrid event featuring the latest advancements in separation technology and mass spectrometry. Focusing on all stages of biotherapeutics development, from discovery and research, all the way to routine and QC analysis, this event will give you valuable insights to accelerate your biopharmaceutical development journey.
The following speakers will talk at this event at the NIBRT research facility which will be streamed live all over Europe:
<ul>
<li>Dr. Jonathan Bones, NIBRT</li>
<li>Prof. Mark Dickman, University of Sheffield</li>
<li>Dr. Dan Bach Kristensen, Symphogen</li>
<li>Dr. Mark Hilliard, Pfizer</li>
<li>Dr. Ken Cook, Thermo Fisher Scientific</li>
<li>Jon Bardsley, Thermo Fisher Scientific</li>
</ul>
Whether you are a researcher, scientist, or industry professional in our region, this biopharma event is not to be missed. Expand your knowledge, network with experts, and discover how the Thermo Scientific solutions will stand by your side to accelerate your biopharmaceutical development journey.
Mark your calendars for September 17th and join us for this impactful hybrid event foster collaboration within the scientific community.
Participation is free of charge, registration is required.
For any questions about this event or regarding your registration, please email CMDEvents@thermofisher.com.
<h4>How to attend?</h4>
3 ways of attending:
<h5>Online attendees (remote):</h5>
Unable to travel to a satellite? Not a problem! You can register to attend conveniently online from your desk or anywhere else through the live stream from NIBRT.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CMD/Flyers/fl-003119-pb-live-from-the-lab-ms-biotherapeutics-agenda-online-fl003119-em-en.pdf">Agenda</a></li>
</ul>
<h5>NIBRT Research Facility (in-person event):</h5>
Join the heart of the event where the main agenda will be hosted and live streamed across our region to our satellite events and our online audience. Attendance through VIP invitation only!
<h5>Join a ‘Satellite’ location (in-person event):</h5>
Across Europe, our in-person satellite events will be broadcasting the main agenda live streamed from NIBRT, Dublin and supplement the day with local speakers/lab tours pending on the satellite. Take this opportunity to network with fellow scientists and meet your Thermo Fisher representatives from technical, commercial, and service functions. Check out the closest location to you and their individual agenda!
<ul>
<li>Søborg, Denmark (AGC Biologics)</li>
<li>Dreieich, Germany (Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li>
<li>Segrate, Italy (MI) (Thermo Fisher Scientific S.P.A.)</li>
<li>Leiden, Netherlands (Janssen Biologics BV)</li>
<li>Ljubljana, Slovenia (Four Points by Sheraton Ljubljana Mons)</li>
<li>Reinach, Switzerland (Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li>
<li>Hemel Hempstead, UK (Thermo Fisher Scientific)</li>
</ul>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Live from the Lab: Solutions for biotherapeutics

Live from the Lab: Solutions for biotherapeutics

An exciting biopharma hybrid event featuring the latest advancements in separation technology and mass spectrometry.

The sample throughput of high-sensitivity liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based proteomics analysis is restricted by the pressure limitations of LC and column hardware, with some methods wasting as much as 50% of the method cycle time outside of MS acquisition.
Traditional routes for boosting throughput include shorter columns and gradients, higher flow rates, and using trap-and-elute workflows – all of which introduce trade-offs in sensitivity and proteome depth.
The Thermo Scientific™ Vanquish™ Neo tandem direct injection workflow leverages hardware innovations and software intelligence to eliminate method overhead while maintaining data quality across nano, capillary, and micro-flow LC-MS.
In this webinar experts from Evotec and Bayer will showcase how they implemented the tandem direct injection workflow for their proteomics work. Dr. Nagarjuna Nagaraj will present on how Evotec is using tandem direct injection with nano-LC columns packed in-house to boost sample throughput of their chemoproteomics screening pipeline, while Dr. Alexander Boychenko from Bayer will discuss how his lab is using a micro-flow tandem direct injection approach to analyze plasma samples for translational proteomics.
Learning Objectives
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<li>See how minimizing LC-MS method overhead can accelerate sample throughput while maintaining proteome depth
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<li>Discover how labs are using tandem direct injection for chemoproteomics and translational proteomics applications
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<li>Learn how to implement tandem direct injection in your proteomics workflow
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</ul>
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Presenter: Dr. Nagarjuna Nagaraj (Group Leader High Sensitivity Proteomics, Evotec)
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Dr. Nagarjuna Nagaraj is a proteomics group leader at Evotec focusing on high sensitivity and high throughput proteomics applications with more than 18 years of experience in proteomics and mass spectrometry. Nagarjuna obtained his PhD from the Matthias Mann lab focusing on sample preparation and MS data acquisition strategies for clinical applications. After a postdoc he directed the mass spectrometry core facility at the Max-Planck-Institute of Biochemistry working on a wide range of protein and peptide mass spectrometry projects such as bottom-up proteomics, structural mass spectrometry including HDX, native and crosslinking MS, intact protein and small molecule analysis.
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Presenter: Dr. Alexander Boychenko (Head of R&amp;D Laboratory Precision Medicine Markers, Bayer)
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Alexander Boychenko is leading Omics Research within the Translational Sciences team of the Pharmaceuticals division at Bayer Group. He is focused on implementing innovative analytical technologies and developing novel methodologies for proteomics, metabolomics, and ligand-binding assays (LBA) to comprehensively characterize human and animal model phenotypes, enabling disease understanding and novel biomarker discovery. He holds a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Kharkiv National University, Ukraine. During his post-doctoral work at the University of Groningen, The Netherlands, he combined LC-MS and immunoassays to discover and validate protein biomarkers in biofluids for cancer screening. Before joining Research and Early Development at Bayer AG, he developed and introduced new liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry products at Thermo Fisher Scientific. Alexander is a subject matter expert in LC-MS, biological data interpretation, and precision medicine. He utilizes his passion for applying technical expertise to develop new medicines.
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Presenter: Dr. Alec Valenta (Product Marketing Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
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Alec is the product marketing manager for the Vanquish Neo UHPLC system and low-flow LC columns. Prior to joining Thermo Fisher Scientific he earned his PhD in analytical chemistry from the University of Michigan where he helped advance microdialysis sampling of neurochemicals and developed LC-MS methods to quantify small molecule neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and metabolites in a variety of complex biological samples.
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Thermo Scientific: A Tandem LC Workflow for Maximizing Mass Spectrometer Utilization in Proteomics

A Tandem LC Workflow for Maximizing Mass Spectrometer Utilization in Proteomics

How experts from Evotec and Bayer implemented the tandem direct injection workflow for their proteomics work.

A Tandem LC Workflow for Maximizing Mass Spectrometer

Join us for an exclusive two-day event where Agilent will showcase cutting-edge biopharma solutions.
The first day of the event we will explore Agilent’s comprehensive portfolio for the spectrum of applications from drug discovery to quality control. Learn more about our cell analysis and genomics expertise and the tools we provide to drive IVT mRNA development, protein therapeutics and cell and gene therapies
The second day will focus on advanced analytical solutions, including HRMS for tRNA sequencing and LC/MS for DNA/RNA analysis. Learn how to scale up oligonucleotide purification with Agilent biocolumns, which enhance the efficiency and accuracy of your processes.
By attending this event you will:
<ul>
<li>Gain insights from Agilent to optimize biotherapeutic workflows, including rigorous quality testing in cGMP environments and handling nucleic acid, vaccines, mAB and protein samples.
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<li>Understand how metabolic analyses can impact CAR cell function and behavior, using cytolytic cell killing assays on the xCELLigence system to develop cell therapy processes and confirm product potency.
</li>
<li>Learn about new techniques in high-resolution LC/MS for analyzing tRNA modifications.
</li>
<li>Discover software tools available for high-resolution MS systems in both research and QA/QC labs.
</li>
<li>Compare analytical and semipreparative LC purification methods for synthetic oligonucleotides, gaining competitive insights into purification strategies.
</li>
</ul>
<h5>Talk 1: Agilent Tools and Technologies to Drive Advancements in Biopharmaceutical Drug Development</h5>
<ul>
<li>Presented by Dr. Hervé Chaulet, Molecular and Biological Research Market Specialist, Agilent Technologies</li>
</ul>
Discovering, developing, and manufacturing biopharmaceuticals requires you to stay abreast of advances in knowledge and improvements in technology while constantly navigating a maze of business and scientific challenges. Agilent can be a trusted partner providing expertise and end-to-end workflows including systems, software, consumables, and services for the spectrum of applications from drug discovery to quality control. Learn more about our cell analysis and genomics expertise and the tools we provide to drive IVT mRNA development, protein therapeutics, and cell and gene therapies.
<h5>Talk 2: Quality Control In IVT mRNA Therapeutics and Vaccine Development Workflow Using The Agilent Fragment Analyzer System</h5>
<ul>
<li>Presented by Dr. Leslie Friedmann, Product Manager, Agilent Technologies</li>
</ul>
Reliable and robust analysis is essential throughout in vitro transcription (IVT) mRNA workflows, providing important quality information to help minimize risk and aid in the production of a consistent product. The Agilent Fragment Analyzer systems can be used for several QC steps at different checkpoints in mRNA vaccine development, providing accurate and precise sizing and integrity analysis. These QC steps are to determine the quality and size of the linearized plasmid, the size and purity of the IVT mRNA, length of the poly(A) tail, and purity of the final mRNA vaccine product.
<h5>Talk 3: Analysis of NIST mAb Reference Material by Parallel SDS-Capillary Electrophoresis</h5>
<ul>
<li>Presented by Dr. Kyle Luttgeharm, Product Manager, Agilent Technologies</li>
</ul>
Monoclonal antibody drug products are complex biomolecules that must be tested for critical quality attributes (CQAs) such as monomeric purity and percent glycosylation. Capillary gel electrophoresis methods have been adopted as the standard method for size heterogeneity characterization, however legacy capillary electrophoresis (CE) methods involve complicated workflows or are cost prohibitive. To address these problems with legacy methods, Agilent has developed a 12-channel, parallel capillary electrophoresis-SDS (CE-SDS) instrument and reagents. The system uses a high-resolution sieving gel, allowing for resolution of mAb species including the non-glycosylated heavy chain and light chain. To demonstrate the capabilities of the ProteoAnalyzer, the NIST mAb was characterized under both reduced and non-reduced conditions and compared to the NIST data sheet.
<h5>Talk 4: Advanced Analytics for Cell Therapy Research, Process Development, and Manufacturing</h5>
<ul>
<li>Presented by Dr. Kelly Kroeger, Science &amp; Technology Advisor, Agilent Technologies</li>
</ul>
With immunology and immune-based therapies rising as a pillar of science and therapeutics, we are seeing a foundational shift from targeting specific proteins and pathways to actually targeting the immune cellular network that resolves and prevents disease. Therefore there is a critical need for cell analysis tools to facilitate understanding of the dynamic nature of the interaction of these cellular networks whether it is in the context of immune cells or immune cells with cancer cells.
To address these new challenges, we at Agilent Technologies have developed a portfolio of cell analysis solutions that provide researchers with more relevant tools to measure living cells, dynamically track them, and model their microenvironments. These next-generation therapies require methods and technologies to enable assessment of real-time cell function, phenotype, and fate. Used together, the Agilent tool bench provides the capability to measure and develop immune cell function more effectively, thus enabling translational researchers and developers to achieve the necessary level of potential therapeutic potency and safety.

Technology Networks: Biopharma Innovations Summit

Biopharma Innovations Summit Day 1

Learn more about our cell analysis and genomics expertise and the tools we provide to drive IVT mRNA development.

The allowable adjustments to compendial methods published in USP General Chapter 621 and Ph. Eur. 2.2.46 provide scope for analysts to migrate methods to smaller column dimensions, providing advantages in terms of time and cost savings.This webinar will provide insight into the considerations necessary when applying allowable adjustments to gradient monographs.<h4>Key Learning Points:</h4><ul><li>Learn about Allowable adjustments possible when working with gradient monograph methods</li><li>Understand system considerations in terms of dwell volume</li><li>Dig into calculations to perform in order to scale gradient conditions correctly</li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend:</h4><ul><li>Any analysts working with pharmacopeia methods or chromatographers who work with gradient methods&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: James Turner (Global Market Manager, Phenomenex)With more than 25 years of experience at Phenomenex, James has been responsible for providing specialist technical support to customers across Europe with method development assistance, troubleshooting advice and chromatographic solutions to various customer problems. James has also been involved with the technical training of many Phenomenex technical consultants, across the multiple techniques we serve.</blockquote>

Phenomenex: Working with Allowed Adjustments Pharmacopeia HPLC Methods – Gradient Considerations

Working with Allowed Adjustments Pharmacopeia HPLC Methods – Gradient Considerations

Insight into the considerations necessary when applying allowable adjustments to gradient monographs.

Working with Allowed Adjustments Pharmacopeia HPLC

The use of biotherapeutic synthetic peptides in drug development has grown significantly in the past decade.Biotherapeutic synthetic peptides often have higher efficacy, safety, and tolerability in humans compared to small molecules. &nbsp;They also have lower production complexity and cost than protein-based biopharmaceuticals.While synthesis reactions are carefully controlled, impurities as well as degradation species are inevitably formed and must be characterized and identified. Having a robust Reversed-Phase (RP) method provides a solid foundation in the characterization and identification of these impurities. &nbsp;This webinar will review some of the principles and practices to develop robust RP separation methods showing examples using GLP-1 Agonists.<ul><li>Principles of Reversed-Phase LC and LC/MS of Peptides</li><li>Considerations in Selecting an Appropriate RP Column</li><li>Considerations in Selecting an Appropriate RP Eluent</li><li>Step by Step Approach to Developing a Robust Peptide Separations</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Bill Warren (Principal Consultant Product Manager, Waters Corporation)In 1986, Bill joined Waters Corporation as a senior applications chemist involved with the research and development of HPLC, FPLC, and Capillary Electrophoresis applications for the analysis and purification of proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids.He currently is a Principal Consulting Bio separations Product Manager whose responsibilities involve assisting in the development and commercialization of innovative reagents and chromatography-based technologies for the separation, purification, and characterization of proteins and peptides.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Development of Reversed-Phase Methods for the Analysis of Biotherapeutic Synthetic Peptides including GLP-1 Agonists

Development of Reversed-Phase Methods for the Analysis of Biotherapeutic Synthetic Peptides including GLP-1 Agonists

This webinar will review some of the principles and practices to develop robust RP separation methods showing examples using GLP-1 Agonists.

RP Methods for the Analysis of GLP-1 Agonists

<h4>The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School - An Educational Journey to Master Food &amp; Environmental Analysis</h4>Unlock the full potential of LC-MS techniques with our immersive and educational sessions at the Waters Virtual F&amp;E Late Summer School 2024. From September 24th to 26th, engage with leading experts and discover cutting-edge methods for environmental and food analysis.<h5>Why attend?</h5><ul><li>Comprehensive Learning: Dive deep into advanced LC-MS techniques and gain practical knowledge to enhance your laboratory's analytical capabilities.</li><li>Expert Insights: Learn from industry leaders and gain firsthand experience through detailed modules on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation.</li><li>Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead with the latest insights on EU regulations for PFAS analysis in food and water, ensuring your lab meets stringent standards.</li></ul><h3>Episode #1: Chromatography - UPLC | F&amp;E Summer School - Day 1 - Module 1</h3>This section will provide an overview of the Waters reference material available to customer to help plan the best columns and chromatographic conditions for their LC-MS methods, using common environmental contaminants as an example. We highlight how to create LC-MS methods using the Acquisition Method Editor (AME) application within waters_connect™. Finally, this section will cover some of the most troubleshooting issues: contaminated blank peaks, poor peak shape, etc, and how to address them.<h5>What you'll learn:</h5><ul><li>Important factors for developing a UPLC method - considering analyte solubility, pKa and partitioning coefficient (Kow)</li><li>Selecting the most appropriate UPLC column for your analytes</li><li>Setting up LC-MS methods in the waters_connectTM console</li><li>Troubleshooting common contamination issues</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Nicole Baumgarten (Sr Sales Applications Chemist, Waters Corporation)Nicole is part of the Customer Success team at Waters with a focus on LC-MS/MS application and sales support. She works in this role for more than 9 years and gained experience in previous roles as analyst for biopharmaceuticals in process controls at Boehringer Ingelheim and research Assistent at Zentrum für Humangenetik und Laboratoriumsmedizin in Munich after finishing a Master of Chemical engineering at Hochschule Fresenius, Idstein.Presenter: Caroline Davis (Sr Sales Applications Chemist, Waters Corporation)</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: The Waters 2024 Virtual Summer School

Chromatography - UPLC

An overview of the Waters reference material available to customer to help plan the best columns and chromatographic conditions for their LC-MS methods.

Chromatography - UPLC 

<h4>Overview</h4>We invite you to our 2nd Annual Virtual Biosymposium. This year, we will explore novel analytical characterization and quantitation of emerging modalities, such as DNA and mRNA, along with key method development considerations with global thought leaders.We look forward to seeing you! Key Event Objectives:<ul><li>Learn about novel approaches to characterizing established and modern biotherapeutic modalities</li><li>Understand key considerations when developing characterizing and quantitating methods for biomolecules</li><li>Take a deep dive into the values of fit-for-purpose methods to make critical drug decisions</li></ul>AGENDA7:30am AM (PT) - Welcoming Introductions<ul><li>Tran N. Pham, Global Biopharma Market Development Manager at Phenomenex</li></ul>7:35 AM (PT) - "Solutions &amp; Characterization Strategies for IVT mRNA Therapy Development"<ul><li>Charles Bai, Lead Application Scientist, VectorBuilder, Chicago, USA</li></ul>8:05 AM (PT) - &nbsp;"Utilizing Size Exclusion Chromatography for the Quality Control Analysis of Gene Therapeutics”<ul><li>Rebecca Hirschberger, QC Manager Bioanalytical Implementation, and Dr. Christopher Gawlig, QC Manager Research and development, Biospring, Germany</li></ul>8:35 AM (PT) "Impurity Profiling Optimization of GalNAc-conjugated Oligonucleotides by LC-MS-UV"<ul><li>Roxana Eggleston-Rangel, Senior Applications Scientist, Phenomenex, California, USA</li></ul>9:05 AM (PT) – Round Table Q&amp;A<ul><li>Tran N. Pham, Global Biopharma Market Development Manager at Phenomenex</li></ul>9:25 AM (PT) – Closing Remarks<blockquote>Presenter: Charles Bai (Lead Application Scientist)Charles has received his PhD in Microbiology at Purdue University. As a Lead Application Scientist at VectorBuilder, his main responsibilities are to provide technical consultation for clients regarding gene delivery using viral and non-viral vectors. Regarding the application of in vitro transcribed (IVT) RNA, Charles has been helping researchers with the design, production and encapsulation of IVT mRNA, circRNA or saRNA for therapy and vaccine development.Presenter: Rebecca Hirschberger (Quality Control Bioanalytical Method Development)Rebecca has been in the chromatography industry for over 2 years and has practical experience in the quality control of gene therapeutics. She has earnt a Masters in pharmaceutical science from Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, focused on instrumental analytics. Since Dezember 2022 she is a licensed Pharmacist in Germany. Rebecca Hirschberger joined BioSpring in August of 2021 and she serves as QC Manager Bioanalytical Implementation. Her area of responsibility includes: Various analyses of oligonucleotides, including (tandem) mass spectrometry via qToF, biochemical techniques, i.e. ELISA, enzymatic transformation of oligonucleotides for analytical and quality control purposes and the Separation of oligonucleotides by chromatographic methods.Presenter: Roxana Eggleston-Rangel (Senior Applications Scientist, Phenomenex)Roxana joined Phenomenex in 2018 as an Applications Scientist and is currently working with the applications team to produce analytical solutions for scientist in the biopharma industry. Roxana’s current work focuses on characterization of mRNA, sgRNA and siRNA. Prior to Phenomenex, Roxana worked for Caltech and the University of Southern California developing LM-CS workflows for the proteomics community. Roxana Eggleston-Rangel received her bachelor’s and master’s degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry from California State University, Los Angeles.</blockquote>

Phenomenex: 2nd Annual Virtual Biosymposium

2nd Annual Virtual Biosymposium

Explore novel analytical characterization and quantitation of emerging modalities, such as DNA and mRNA

LCMS webinars focusing on HPLC - page 21

Biopharma Innovations Summit Day 1

Chromatography - UPLC

Lipid nanoparticles

2nd Annual Virtual Biosymposium

Working with Allowed Adjustments Pharmacopeia HPLC Methods – Gradient Considerations

A Tandem LC Workflow for Maximizing Mass Spectrometer Utilization in Proteomics

Quality Control of Purified Proteins to Improve Research Data Reproducibility: Improving the Time-Efficiency and Quality of Your Results

Development of Reversed-Phase Methods for the Analysis of Biotherapeutic Synthetic Peptides including GLP-1 Agonists

Live from the Lab: Solutions for biotherapeutics

Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels to Ensure a Greener, more Sustainable Future

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LCMS webinars focusing on HPLC - page 21

Biopharma Innovations Summit Day 1

Chromatography - UPLC

Lipid nanoparticles

2nd Annual Virtual Biosymposium

Working with Allowed Adjustments Pharmacopeia HPLC Methods – Gradient Considerations

A Tandem LC Workflow for Maximizing Mass Spectrometer Utilization in Proteomics

Quality Control of Purified Proteins to Improve Research Data Reproducibility: Improving the Time-Efficiency and Quality of Your Results​

Development of Reversed-Phase Methods for the Analysis of Biotherapeutic Synthetic Peptides including GLP-1 Agonists

Live from the Lab: Solutions for biotherapeutics

Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels to Ensure a Greener, more Sustainable Future

Related content

Using LC-MS & GC-MS to Decode Photoredox Catalyst Stability

Tracking unspliced RNA: Professor Rumlová studies how retroviruses “hack” cells

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