<p><strong>Tasty beer starts with knowing what’s in your hops. Explore how online SPE makes bitter acid analysis in hops faster and more reliable.</strong></p><h4><strong>How can you detect bitter acid profiles quickly, reliably, and more sustainably?</strong></h4><p>For craft brewers and beer lovers alike, a refreshing experience is all about flavor.</p><p>So how can you achieve the desired bitterness in your beer? The answer is not just about the recipe. Finding the right flavor profile starts with the bitter acids present in the starting hops material.</p><div><div><p>Hops (the heart of your favorite beer) are the source of the brew’s distinctive flavor tied to bitterness and aroma.</p><p>At the molecular level, bitterness is driven by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814622016338">α- and β-bitter acids</a>, like humulones and lupulones, whose concentrations determine the final sensory profile of the beer (<strong>Figure 1</strong>).</p><p>Accurately characterizing these compounds in each batch allows brewers to unlock the full potential of every variety of hops.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_2_6435757c03.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 1. General chemical structure of hop bitter acids." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_2_6435757c03.jpeg 222w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="493"></p><p>While conventional analytical methods rely on long, manual sample preparation steps and hazardous solvents, laboratories now strive for greener and more efficient workflows.</p><p>And moving from manual to online sample preparation is one of the easiest ways your lab can reduce waste and — most importantly — improve reliability with automation.</p><h4><strong>Key takeaways</strong></h4><ul><li>Online SPE reduces hands-on work, shortens turnaround time, and supports more sustainable methods by cutting solvent use and eliminating single-use cartridges.</li><li>Automated UHPLC workflows are easier for new users to execute, offering more reproducible quantifications of α- and β-bitter acids in hops.</li><li>Accurate bitter acid profiles help brewers distinguish hop varieties and control flavor with confidence.</li></ul><h4><strong>Comparing offline vs. online solid phase extraction for bitter acid HPLC analysis</strong></h4><p>If you’ve spent long hours in the lab preparing samples for hops analysis, you’re not alone.</p><p>Manual sample preparation often takes the most time in hops analysis, an area where online <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/content/lifetech/global/en/home/industrial/chromatography/chromatography-learning-center/chromatography-consumables/sample-prep.html">solid phase extraction</a> (SPE) can make a real difference. Here’s why.</p><p>Manual SPE has a lot of manual steps. Extraction. Cartridge loading. Washing. Elution. And sometimes solvent exchange or reduction. All before your actual analysis begins. This labor-intensive workflow can take up to an hour and depends strongly on operator skillsets, making reproducibility a challenge for new hires.</p><h4><strong>Online SPE analysis provides key benefits like:</strong></h4><ul><li>Hands-off workflow free of cartridges, manifolds, or vacuum steps.</li><li>Column washing and re-equilibration occur in parallel with separation.</li><li>SPE step is complete in just two minutes.</li><li>Minimizes operator-dependent variability.</li><li>Uses less than 8 mL of solvent.</li></ul><p>Let’s explore what this technique looks like in practice.</p><h4><strong>Online SPE for analyzing α- and β-bitter acids in hops standard solutions.</strong></h4><p>Changing your sample preparation from manual to automated isn’t complicated. With the right tools you can fully integrate online SPE with your UHPLC system (<strong>Figure 2</strong>).</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_3_4fb14243b4.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 2. Schematic workflow for the determination of bitter acids in hops. The process involves clean up and instrumental analysis using the Thermo Scientific Vanquish Online SPE UHPLC System." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_3_4fb14243b4.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="323"></p><h4><strong>The process for analyzing a hops standard solution is straightforward:</strong></h4><ol><li>First, extract hop samples with ethanol (a greener alternative to toluene or diethyl ether in conventional methods).</li><li>Inject the extract directly into your instrument for analysis. Bitter acids retain<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1970"><strong> on the SPE column</strong></a> while matrix interferences that can comprise quantitation are removed.</li><li>Next, backflush the SPE column to transfer the analytes to the<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/423"><strong> analytical column </strong></a>for separation. While this separation is taking place, the SPE column is washed and re-equilibrated in parallel, keeping the total run time to 15 minutes, with the separation of all six major bitter acids in a single analysis (<strong>Figure 3</strong>).</li></ol><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_4_1e47405e3c.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 3. UV chromatogram of hop bitter acids in standard solution (1-cohumulone, 2-humulone, 3-adhumulone, 4-colupulone, 5-lupulone, 6-adlupulone)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_4_1e47405e3c.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="347"></p><h4><strong>Online SPE for analyzing α- and β-bitter acids in real hops samples</strong></h4><p>Analytical labs need methods that are accurate and reliable for brewers to develop distinct and reproducible flavor profiles across batches.</p><p>To assess the applicability of online SPE UHPLC methods for hops analysis, we analyzed bitter acid profiles from four species — Sultana, Barbe Rouge, Azacca, and Sabro.</p><p>The concentration of α-acids dominated all samples, while each hops species exhibited distinct profiles in terms of α-acid and β-acid content, making them suitable for different brewing strategies (<strong>Figure 4</strong>).</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_5_3a179217db.jpeg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors: Figure 4. Bitter acid profiles in four different hop species, error bars display SD (n=6). To check method consistency, we measured each hops extract six times. Variation between measurements was low, with relative standard deviation below 3.5 % across all hops species." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_How_Bitter_Acid_Analysis_Helps_Brewers_Better_Control_Beer_Flavors_5_3a179217db.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="700" height="410"></p><ul><li>For testing labs, this process translates into a workflow that is easy to run, fast, and delivers reliable results without added complexity.</li><li>For craft brewers, reliability means clear, trustworthy insights into hops bitter acid profiles, for better hop selection and more precise control of bitterness and flavor in your beer.</li></ul><h4><strong>From carefully procured samples to tasty sips</strong></h4><p>Efficient UHPLC workflows support faster results, less solvent use, and reliable bitterness data for brewers. And online SPE turns those advantages into practical, day-to-day benefits for brewers and labs alike.</p><ul><li>Less hands-on skills required for lab analysts</li><li>Faster results from labs to brewers</li><li>A more sustainable way to work</li><li>Clear insights into hops flavor</li></ul><p>To learn more about the method and see the full application data, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/cn_004238_hplc_vanquish_online_spe_bitter_acids_hops_cn004238_na_en_587a5d300b.pdf"><strong>check out our application note today</strong></a>.</p><h4><strong>FAQs</strong></h4><div><div><h5><strong>What are the key compounds in hops analyzed by HPLC?</strong></h5><p>Bitter acids, namely α-acids and β-acids, especially the six major bitter acids (humulones and lupulones) that define hop bitterness and are required for quality control and brewing decisions.</p></div><div><h5><strong>What column types are recommended for hop acid separations?</strong></h5><p>Classical C18 Silica columns are ideal for bitter acids separation. UHPLC compatible columns with particle size ≤ 2 µm boost analysis with higher flow rate, thus shorter analysis time and solvent consumption.</p></div><div><h5><strong>What’s the best workflow for hops analysis?</strong></h5><p>A typical workflow for hop analysis consists of three main steps: extraction of the target compounds, clean-up of co-extracted matrix components, and instrumental analysis by HPLC or UHPLC. To keep this workflow efficient and reproducible, you should minimize manual handling and add in automation when possible. Integrating online SPE into your LC instrument allows sample clean-up to run automatically, reducing hands-on time, solvent use, and variability while delivering faster, more reliable results.</p></div></div><blockquote><p><strong>Visit us on&nbsp;</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/"><strong><u>LinkedIn:</u></strong></a>&nbsp;#UHPLC #Automation</p></blockquote></div></div>

How Bitter Acid Analysis Helps Brewers Better Control Beer Flavors

<p><strong>In the week of June 29, the following webinars await you in the field of liquid phase and especially HPLC and LC/MS.</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Insights from an IC specialist: To be suppressed or not suppressed?</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 09:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6310">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Join Thermo Fisher’s Ask the Experts session to learn how suppressor technology impacts ion chromatography performance, sensitivity, reliability, maintenance, and troubleshooting.</p><h5><strong>2. SCIEX: Advancing Proteomics with ZenoTOF: From Single-Cell Analysis to Plasma Biomarker Discovery</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 11:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6311">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how ZenoTOF high-resolution mass spectrometry is accelerating single-cell proteomics and plasma biomarker discovery through enhanced sensitivity, throughput, and automation.</p><h5><strong>3. Agilent Technologies: Measuring Diverse Samples with UV/VIS Spectrometers and Integrating Spheres</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 30.6.2026 20:30 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6052">Registration</a></li></ul><p>This webinar will discuss diffuse transmission and reflection UV/VIS measurements, including how to perform measurements with Agilent’s Cary 60 UV/VIS Spectrometer.</p><h5><strong>4. Waters Corporation: Informatics series #33 Tips, Tricks and Best Practices</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 2.7.2026 11:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6315">Registration</a></li></ul><p>This interactive session revisits essential features, shortcuts, and practical techniques in Empower software that can streamline everyday laboratory work and reduce unnecessary effort.</p><h5><strong>5. Waters Corporation: Unlocking Therapeutic Peptide Characterisation (GLP-1RAs) with Cyclic IMS</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 2.7.2026 15:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6313">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how cyclic ion mobility spectrometry (cyclic IMS) improves characterization of GLP-1 analogues and therapeutic peptides, supporting development, quality control, and regulatory submissions.</p><h5><strong>6. Agilent Technologies: Spectral Flow Cytometry Masterclass - Session 1</strong></h5><ul><li>Fr, 3.7.2026 07:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6316">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how full-spectrum flow cytometry enables high-dimensional cell analysis. Explore spectral flow technology, experimental design, and applications in immunology, oncology, and vaccine research.</p>

Webinars LabRulezLCMS Week 27/2026

<p><strong>The international standard ISO/IEC 17025 [1] clause 7.7.2 with regards to ensuring the validity of results, requires a laboratory to participate in proficiency testing (PT) and/or to participate in interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) other than PT. However, no guidance as to what these other ILCs might be, or indeed how they might compare in relation to PT, is provided. This leaflet aims to outline other ILCs available, pointing out some of the limitations as compared to PT.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>There are three major types of ILCs in which a group of laboratories analyses identical portions from a homogeneous, stable test sample, with each type being characterized by its intended purpose [2,3]:</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_2_d9263807fb.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_2_d9263807fb.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1507" height="607"></p><p>A key point is that PT is an ILC that is designed to specifically evaluate the performance of participants, providing them with an infrastructure to monitor and assess the validity of their results. This is not the key purpose of the two other ILCs, and thus depending on their intended purpose they have a number of limitations that laboratories need to be aware of when using them rather than PT. Only proficiency testing should have been conducted in full compliance to the competency standard ISO/IEC 17043 [4].&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Evaluation of measurement procedure performance&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>These ILCs, are designed to assess how a particular measurement procedure performs and whether it is fit for its intended purpose. These ILCs are often referred to as a ‘method performance study’ or a ‘collaborative study’ [2]. Some limitations of using such ILCs for monitoring laboratory performance as an alternative to PT are:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>All participants use the same measurement procedure i.e. the measurement procedure that is being validated. Unless the measurement procedure is being routinely used by the participating laboratory such an ILC will not assess the routine performance of the laboratory using their own routine measurement procedure. Nor does it enable them to compare their performance with other laboratories using alternative measurement procedures.&nbsp;</li><li>The measurement procedure is likely to be new, so participants may not have established stable procedures and quality control, so performance may not reflect routine use.&nbsp;</li><li>The report from such an ILC would not provide information on the performance of the participant, if the statistical model used makes the assumption that all laboratories perform with equal variability.</li><li>The design of the study may require the participants to assess multiple samples and/or to undertake multiple replicate analysis on the test materials. This may not be representative of the routine measurements or tests undertaken by the laboratory.&nbsp;</li><li>The conclusion of the ILC might be that the measurement procedure being assessed is not valid.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_3_a53ecd2f5d.jpg" alt="Eurachem: Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Eurachem_Interlaboratory_comparisons_other_than_proficiency_testing_3_a53ecd2f5d.jpg 157w," sizes="100vw" width="570" height="566"></p><h4><strong>Characterisation of candidate reference materials&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>These are ILCs that assign a property value to a candidate reference material, usually with a stated measurement uncertainty. These are often referred to as a ‘material certification study’ [2]. Limitations of using such ILCs as an alternative to PT are:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>The analysis of the candidate reference material is likely to require additional care in exercising the routine measurement procedure, such as substantially more replication, and/or may require quite different reporting formats (e.g. all valid replicates instead of a mean result). Thus, such an ILC will not necessarily provide an evaluation of the performance of the laboratory based on the routine use of their measurement procedures.&nbsp;</li><li>The report from such an ILC may include the results from the participating laboratories but would not provide information on the performance of each laboratory.&nbsp;</li><li>Participating laboratories may be required to assess multiple samples and/or to undertake multiple replicate analysis on the candidate reference materials. Thus this may not be representative of the routine measurements or tests undertaken by the laboratory.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4><strong>Other ILCs&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Some other ILCs, whilst not being conducted in full compliance of the requirements of ISO/IEC 17043, may be designed to evaluate participant performance. These would include small ILCs as defined by EA‑2/21 [5] or split sample ILCs i.e. where a portion of a single sample is sent to two or three laboratories. Whilst these ILCs are specifically designed to evaluate participant performance, they may not provide a comprehensive comparison that a PT might provide. In such cases the laboratory needs to evaluate carefully the competence of the organization managing the ILC and the suitability of the service externally provided (ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.6).</p>

Interlaboratory comparisons other than proficiency testing

Article

Webinars

Academy

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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

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Agilent Technologies

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Waters Corporation

<p><strong>WEOF is back for 2023, and this time we will do it 100% virtually to allow even more people to participate. But don&#39;t expect to see only some presentations! We have put together for you an interesting agenda with Live Demos, customer talks, and the chance to ask our experts your questions. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about the advancements in oligonucleotide analysis and about the analytical challenges and successes of your peers.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Join our virtual Live Demos</li>
<li>Hear from other scientists like you about their approaches and experiences</li>
<li>Stay up to date with the latest analytical developments for nucleic acids</li>
</ul>
<p>The agenda will be a mix of talks from the scientific community and Waters presentations. We will discuss current analytical needs and show some Live Demos of LC/MS solutions and software:</p>
<h3><strong>AGENDA</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>10:00 Welcome and Short Introduction</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Speaker:</strong> David Muñoz (Waters Corporation)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>10:05 Waters Live Demo: Impurity Analysis by LC/MS</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Speaker:</strong> Emma L Harry (Waters Corporation)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>10:25 Customer Talk: Cytiva Sweden AB</strong></h5>
<h5><strong>Analysis of Oligonucleotides using BioAccord LC-MS</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Speaker:</strong> Filip Bergqvist (Senior Scientist)</li>
</ul>
<p>Topic: intact analysis of oligonucleotides, specifically development/performance with IP-RPC</p>
<h5><strong>10:40 Customer Talk: BioNTech Manufacturing GmbH</strong></h5>
<h5><strong>QC Analytics for mRNA therapies</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Speaker:</strong> Jonas Sander</li>
</ul>
<p>Topic: How BioNTech has masterdto set up QC analytics for mRNQ therapies and the added value of Waters solutions</p>
<h5><strong>10:55 MaxPeak Premier Technology for Oligonucleotide Analysis</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Speaker:</strong> Ali Tiss (Waters Corporation)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>11:10 Waters Live Demo: Software</strong></h5>
<h5><strong>CONFIRM &amp; INTACT app</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Speaker:</strong> Chris Knowles (Waters Corporation)</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>11:30 Q&amp;A with Waters</strong></h5>
<p>You ask - our application chemists answer</p>
<h5><strong>11:45 Closing</strong></h5>
<h4><strong>INVITED GUEST SPEAKER</strong></h4>
<h5><strong>Filip Bergqvist</strong> (Senior Scientist, Cytiva Sweden AB)</h5>
<p>Filip is leading bioanalytical activities to support product development and application work for bioprocessing. His main expertise is LC-MS, where he is developing methods for characterization of proteins and nucleic acid therapeutics. </p>
<h5><strong>Dr. Jonas Sander</strong> (BioNTech Manufacturing GmbH)</h5>
<p>(further info will follow soon)</p>
<h4><strong>YOUR WATERS HOSTS</strong></h4>
<h5><strong>David Muñoz</strong> (Principal Biopharma Market Development Manager, Waters Corporation)</h5>
<p>David will be your host for this event. He completed his PhD in Biochemistry at Nottingham Trent University, focused on the effects of toxins on glioma cells. After this he joined Lonza to work as a research and development scientist using different analytical techniques to characterize antibodies and proteins. Later he worked for Thermo Fisher Scientific as applications specialist and Biopharma Expert, and as business development manager in two CDMOs,  focusing on antibodies and viral vector projects. David joined Waters in June 2022 as principal biopharma market development manager.   </p>
<h5><strong>Emma L Harry</strong> (European Applications Laboratory Team Manager, Waters Corporation)</h5>
<p>Emma completed her PhD in Analytical Chemistry at Loughborough University, focused on the development of ion mobility mass spectrometry for complex mixtures.</p>
<p>After her post doctoral research at University of Leicester and having worked as analytical scientist at Hall Analytical, using a variety of analytical techniques, Emma joined Waters in June 2019 as a senior applications chemist in the Demo lab in Wilmslow. In 2021 she was promoted to European applications lab manager.</p>
<h5><strong>Chris Knowles</strong> (Senior Applications Scientist, Waters Corporation)</h5>
<p>Chris is currently working as a Principal Domain Specialist (Applications science) at Waters, having been with the company for 5 years.  He works with the Waters informatics teams to help deliver the waters_connect software applications. His focus has been on the CONFIRM Sequence application.  His background is in Bioprocessing, having worked at FUJIFILM Diasynth Biotechnologies for 3 years as a principal scientist in Mammalian cell culture, following completion of a PhD in mammalian cell line engineering at the University of Aberdeen in 2016.</p>
<h5><strong>Ali Tiss</strong> (Sales Specialist Biopharma Chemistry, Europe South, Waters Corporation)</h5>
<p>Ali completed his Ph.D. in biochemistry and structural biology at the Mediterranean University (CNRS, Marseille, France), where he contributed to the R&amp;D of the anti-obesity drug, Xenical®, developed by Roche Ltd. Then, he spent about 20 years of academic research (France, UK, Kuwait) in biochemistry, liquid chromatography, mass-spectrometry, and proteomics, focusing on detecting and characterizing biomarkers related to human diseases (cancer, diabetes, obesity). Ali joined Waters in October 2021 as a BioPharma and New Modalities Specialist in Chemistry for Southern Europe.</p>


Waters Corporation: Waters European Oligonucleotides Forum 2023

Waters European Oligonucleotides Forum 2023

We have put together for you an interesting agenda with Live Demos, customer talks, and the chance to ask our experts your questions. 

<h3><strong>Part 1: Overview of Agilent Biopharma</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Mike Knierman (Biopharma Workflow Manager, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</p>
</blockquote>
<h3><strong>Part 2: Analytical Innovations to Speed-up Antibody Characterization</strong></h3>
<p>The characterization biotherapeutics is essential to assess their safety, quality, and efficacy. In this presentation, we show novel technologies that can address the growing demand for comprehensive and faster characterization of multi-specific antibodies. In the first example, Mobile Affinity Selection Chromatography is used to rapidly assess antibody titer and aggregation levels of crude culture filtrate. We take advantage of this method for unbiased analysis of mispaired chains and aggregates directly from culture supernatants obviating a protein A clean-up step. We show fast aggregate and titer molecular structure quantifications without sample preparation can be achieved with multi-sampler overlapped injections, dramatically improving analysis throughput (~ 2.5 min per sample) without carryover. In the second example, mAb digestion process (&gt; 30 min) is accelerated on the surface of microdroplets (&lt;1 ms) (Anal. Chem., 2021, 93, 3997-4005). We show automated microdroplet reactions under native-pH conditions by combining programmed flow injection with a JetStream ionization source. Intact subunit mass analysis and middle-down characterization of antibody subunits are completed every 2 min. (Anal. Chem., 2023, 95, 3340-3348). Finally, we propose droplet reactions every 2-4 seconds per antibody sample using RapidFire BLAZE mode for ultrafast sample introduction and digestion. We envision, that these analytical innovations will enable comprehensive and faster analysis of biotherapeutics.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Harsha Gunawardena, Ph.D. (Senior Scientist, Mass Spectrometry, Janssen Research &amp; Development, The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson &amp; Johnson)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Harsha Gunawardena obtained his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Purdue University and a Master of Science degree in Analytical Chemistry from University of North Carolina. He was a post-doctoral fellow at the Lineberger comprehensive cancer center, UNC school of medicine where his research focused on refining quantitative platforms for large-scale clinical proteomics and proteogenomic analysis. He was a co-investigator for the NCI clinical proteomics tumor analysis consortium (CPTAC), the ENCODE consortium. His industry career as scientist started at Bayer Health Care providing mass spectrometry and bioanalytical support of plasma-based therapeutics. He later worked at Amgen applying proteomics methods to support biomarker programs and discovery programs in oncology and inflammation. In his current role at Janssen R&amp;D, Johnson &amp; Johnson, he supports discovery early development programs that span several therapeutic modalities.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3><strong>Part 3: Towards the Absolute Quantitation of the Human Proteome: Next Generation of Absolute Protein Quantitation in Biological Matrixes; Higher Multiplexicity While Faster, Robust and Sensitive</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Christoph Borchers, Ph.D. (Professor, Department Oncology, McGill University; CSO, MRM Proteomics)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Professor in the Department of Oncology at McGill University, and holds the Segal Chair in Molecular Oncology. His research involves proteomics and metabolomics technologies for clinical diagnostics and structural proteomics. He is also head of a newly established Omics laboratory for personalized medicine and health at Skoltech, Moscow, Russia.</p>
</blockquote>


Accelerating Analysis in the BioPharma Laboratory

Overview of Agilent Biopharma. Analytical Innovations to Speed-up Antibody Characterization. Absolute Protein Quantitation in Biological Matrixes.

<p><strong>Recent technological advancements have greatly expanded the options for high-quality mass spectrometry equipment. With significant progress in GC-MS, LC-MS, and gas generators, critical analyses can now be conducted with enhanced effectiveness and efficiency.</strong></p>
<p>Join our technical webinar to gain a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge MS equipment and the latest innovations in utilizing hydrogen as a carrier gas. Discover the advancements, including Agilent&#39;s quadrupole time-of-flight LC-MS and PEAK Scientific&#39;s nitrogen gas generator, designed to optimize competitiveness and productivity in your analytical workflows.</p>
<h5>Attend this webinar to:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Learn about why there is a huge drive to switch to hydrogen as a carrier gas for GC</strong></li>
<li><strong>Discover how to achieve time-saving efficiencies and meet future challenges with instrument intelligence using the latest quadrupole time-of-flight LC-MS</strong></li>
<li><strong>Understand how a gas generator can save you time and money as well as improve your lab’s sustainability</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>1. Novel Mass Spectrometry Technologies Expand Future of Biomarker Discovery Research</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Diane Turner (Director and Senior Consultant, Anthias Consulting Ltd)</li>
</ul>
<p>Gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) instruments are used for a wide variety of critical analyses and presents a topic of growing importance as the industry collectively moves away from helium as a carrier gas due to availability and pricing to suitable alternatives such as hydrogen.</p>
<p>In this webinar, Dr. Diane Turner from Anthias Consulting Ltd will focus on the innovations around using hydrogen as a carrier gas and explore the associated benefits as well as address the challenges involved.</p>
<h5>In his talk, she will cover:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Why there is a huge drive to switch to hydrogen as a carrier gas for GC</strong></li>
<li><strong>The associated benefits and negatives of using hydrogen</strong></li>
<li><strong>A ‘to do’ list of parameters to re-optimize when switching to hydrogen</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>2. Be Ready for Future Challenges With an Intelligent LC-MS Solution</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Christian Klein (Product Manager LC/Q-TOF and IM-QTOF, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<p>Many labs are faced with an ever-increasing sample load, while instrumentation and resources remain at a steady level. As a consequence, instrument throughput and uptime are critical factors to maintain competitiveness and productivity.</p>
<p>In this webinar, Dr. Christian Klein will show how you can meet these challenges with the newest time-of-flight LC-MS from Agilent. See examples of complete workflows demonstrating performance, robustness and throughput for food safety screening applications.</p>
<h5>In his talk, he will cover:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>Time-saving efficiencies and meeting future challenges with instrument intelligence</strong></li>
<li><strong>How to implement end-to-end workflows for food safety to produce meaningful results</strong></li>
<li><strong>How to identify and quickly assess compounds in question</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>3. How Can a Gas Generator Benefit Your Lab?</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Petra Gierga (Product Manager, PEAK Scientific)</li>
</ul>
<p>Labs face challenges every day and lab gas should not be one of these problems. On-site gas generators play a pivotal role in helping labs to streamline workflows while providing high-quality gas for LC-MS analysis.</p>
<p>In this webinar, Petra Gierga from PEAK Scientific will be discussing the benefits a gas generator can provide your lab over cylinders, dewars or bulk supply. Removing the need for repeated cylinder deliveries, cylinder contracts, manual handling and changing of cylinders – an in-house gas generator can reduce costs, increase productivity and improve your lab’s sustainability efforts.</p>
<h5>In this talk, she will cover:</h5>
<ul>
<li><strong>How a gas generator can save you time</strong></li>
<li><strong>The economic benefits of using a gas generator</strong></li>
<li><strong>The advantages a gas generator has for your labs workflows and long-term sustainability goals</strong></li>
</ul>


Technology Networks: Breaking the Boundaries: The Latest Innovations in Mass Spectrometry

Breaking the Boundaries: The Latest Innovations in Mass Spectrometry

Technical webinar: overview of cutting-edge MS equipment and the latest innovations in utilizing H2 as a carrier gas, LC/Q-TOF or N2 gas generators.

The Latest Innovations in Mass Spectrometry

<p>First of all, <strong>Lakshmanan Deenadayalan</strong> will present a sensitive method for the quantification of formoterol – a drug used to treat asthma and COPD – in human plasma.</p>
<p>Then, <strong>Eshani Nandita</strong> will introduce a sensitive multiplexed quantification of two commonly co-administered mAbs using the ZenoTOF 7600 system with SCIEX OS software.</p>
<p>Finally, <strong>Ian Moore</strong> will show us how to achieve increased sensitivity for quantification in complex matrices using the SCIEX 7500 system.</p>
<p>At the end of the presentations, you will be able to interact with the speakers and ask any questions.</p>
<p>Attend this webinar to:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Meet front-end technology that improves your quantitative mass spectrometry methods</strong></li>
<li><strong>Achieve ultra-low quantification levels for compounds in human plasma using a simple liquid-liquid extraction sample preparation</strong></li>
<li><strong>Reach LLOQs of 0.15 µg/mL for the quantification of monoclonal antibodies in human serum with a QTOF instrument</strong></li>
<li><strong>Explore lower dosage, higher efficacy compounds and improve the efficiency of bioanalysis in negative mode</strong></li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Ian Moore (Senior Technical Product Manager, Nominal Mass SCIEX)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Lakshmanan Deenadayalan (Application Support Specialist, Indian Innovation Center (IIC) SCIEX)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Eshani Nandita (Global Biopharma Quant Tech Marketing Lead, SCIEX)</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Gerd Altmann: Inside the Tech Note: The Story Behind the Data

Inside the Tech Note: The Story Behind the Data

In this webinar, hear three LC/MS Tech Note authors present their work and explain the genesis of their research.

<p><strong>High resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) has gained importance for broad screening in forensic toxicology laboratories with the emergence and constant evolution of novel psychoactive substances.</strong></p>
<p>The Xevo G3 QTof from Waters is the latest generation of high performance QTof technology and includes many enhancements that improve performance and system robustness. </p>
<p>Among others, ion optics have been improved to enhance the detection of labile drugs such as amphetamines resulting in significantly higher sensitivity. This presentation aims to highlight some of the developments and enhancements that have been made to the recently launched Xevo G3 QTof.</p>
<p>Also detailed in the presentation will be a comparison study conducted between the outgoing Xevo G2-XS QTof with the Xevo G3 QTof, by means of system setup, data generated e.g., richness of information e.g., detection accuracy and analytical sensitivity.</p>
<p>Learning objectives – what you will learn:  </p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Fundamentals of high resolution mass spectrometry</strong></li>
<li><strong>Enhancements made to the recently launched Xevo G3</strong></li>
<li><strong>QTof Comparison data discussion</strong></li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong>  Nayan. S. Mistry (Senior Application Scientist, Forensics, Research &amp; Development, Waters Corporation, Waters Corporation)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Nayan Mistry is a Senior Application Scientist at Waters Corporation. Nayan joined Waters in 2009 and is part of a global team dedicated to performing research and development of applications and analytical solutions for Forensic Toxicology. </p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Nayan’s key focus is on toxicology screening and he has expertise with both nominal mass and accurate mass-based screening using UNIFI and Waters_Connect application software. Nayan plays a key role in the development of these solutions and in the expansion of associated libraries. Currently Nayan is playing a key role in the development and support of the recently launched Xevo G3 QTof mass spectrometer in addition to other responsibilities for the nominal mass applications. His favourite aspect of the role is customer support - Nayan is greatly involved in global on-site customer support and training and has presented his work at conferences worldwide.</p>
</blockquote>


Waters Corporation: High Resolution MSE Toxicology Screening using the Waters Xevo G3 QTof

High Resolution MSE Toxicology Screening using the Waters Xevo G3 QTof

This presentation aims to highlight some of the developments and enhancements that have been made to the recently launched Xevo G3 QTof.

HR MSE Toxicology Screening using the Waters Xevo G3 QTof

<p><strong>Join us for this exciting new demo series where we take you into our application laboratories to see the SELECT SERIES MRT in Action and explore different workflows from the beginning to the end. Register now for the demo series and see for yourself how MRT can expand the possibilities in your research.</strong></p>
<p>We kickstart the series with an overview and demonstration of the technology and highlight the unique benefits when high mass resolution and sub-ppm accuracy combine with the speed of Time-Of-Flight.  </p>
<p>Join us to see how to run samples, experience the latest software for data acquisition, visualization, and interpretation. Register now for this event and see for yourself how MRT can expand the possibilities in your research.</p>
<p>The session will conclude with a live Q&amp;A where members of the Waters Discovery MS portfolio science team will be on hand to answer all of your questions. </p>
<p>Why Should You Attend?</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Learn about the operation of the novel SELECT SERIES MRT technology and see it in Action!</strong></li>
<li><strong>Find out about the unique capabilities of this instrument and how the different acquisition modes can be applied to measure complex samples.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Discover the benefits and flexibility of this technology for a wide range of applications including small and large molecule LC-MS and Imaging.</strong></li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Martin Palmer (Principal Consulting Scientist, MS Discovery Program, Waters Corporation)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Martin Palmer is a Principal Scientist in the Discovery Mass Spectrometry team at Waters Corporation. He has over 20 years’ experience at Waters, most recently leading the scientific contribution required for the evaluation, development and commercialization of new MS technologies including the SELECT SERIES Cyclic IMS and MRT.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Martin collaborates extensively with customers to ensure their analytical challenges are understood and addressed by the next generation of high resolution mass spectrometers.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Martin received his Ph.D. in Mass Spectrometry from Sheffield Hallam University, UK (1999). His scientific work has aided the commercialisation of over 10 mass spectrometers, resulted in over 30 publications and two patents.</p>
</blockquote>


Explore What’s Possible with MRT – Uncompromised Performance

Join us to see how to run samples, experience the latest software for data acquisition, visualization, and interpretation.

<p><strong>Introducing midia-PASEF®, a groundbreaking DIA scan mode utilizing overlapping quadrupole windows for comprehensive ion analysis.</strong></p>
<p>In this webinar, you’ll discover how midia-PASEF offers precise precursor m/z determination, automated processing with the MIDIAID pipeline and supports library-free DIA analyses. You’ll also learn how you can rapidly identify over 40 unique peptides per second for de novo sequencing with highly specific MS/MS spectra and discover the real-world applications of this technology within the proteomics field.</p>
<p>Attend this webinar to: </p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Learn how midia-PASEF® maximizes data quality, enabling fast peptide identification and library-free DIA analyses</strong></li>
<li><strong>Explore the automated MIDIAID pipeline that streamlines processing with peak detection algorithms and machine learning</strong></li>
<li><strong>Discover how you can obtain specific MS/MS spectra for de novo sequencing and seamless searching</strong></li>
<li><strong>See real-world applications: Gain insights into midiaPASEF’s uses in proteomics research, from characterizing the complex immunopeptidome to advancing targeted therapies</strong></li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr. Stefan Tenzer (Professor for Immunopeptidomics, University Medical Center, Mainz)</p>
</blockquote>


Bruker Daltonics: Maximizing Information Content in Data-Independent Acquisition Using midia-PASEF

Maximizing Information Content in Data-Independent Acquisition Using midia-PASEF

How midia-PASEF offers precise precursor m/z determination, automated processing with the MIDIAID pipeline and supports library-free DIA analyses.

Data-Independent Acquisition Using midia-PASEF

<p><strong>Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative, analgesic and muscle relaxant which is used in veterinary medicine and not approved for human use.</strong></p>
<p>Recently there has been an increase in the number of reports of Xylazine being abused in combination with other drugs of abuse, specifically fentanyl. </p>
<p>Moreover, criminal drug networks are mass-producing fake pills and falsely marketing them as prescription pills. </p>
<p>It is important to be able to accurately screen these materials for commonly abused and emerging drugs and confirm the identity of the materials found. </p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>The first part of the webinar will describe two different techniques that can be used for screening and confirmatory analysis of a counterfeit M-30 pill; one using direct ionization MS, and the other using high resolution ToF.</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>The second portion of the webinar will describe an alternative comprehensive confirmatory method using triple quadruple mass spectrometry to quantify each compound found in the pill.</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Emily Lee (Application Scientist, Forensics, Research &amp; Development, Waters Corporation)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Emily Lee is an Application Scientist at Waters Corporation. Emily is part of a global team dedicated to the development of applications and analytical solutions for Forensics and Toxicology. Emily has gained experience in the use of various Waters mass spectrometry technologies for the analysis of forensic and toxicologically relevant analytes. Prior to working at Waters, Emily has experience working in forensic toxicology laboratories, with high sample turnover and fast turnaround times. Emily was involved in many aspects of day-to-day laboratory operations including sample extraction, analysis, method development and validation, analytical troubleshooting, and reporting. Emily also gained a MSc in Forensic Science (Toxicology) at the University of Huddersfield.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Jane A. Cooper (Principal Application Scientist, Forensics, Research &amp; Development, Waters Corporation)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Principal Application Scientist in the Forensic Toxicology section at Waters Corporation, experienced in the generation of technical marketing material to support Waters Field Marketing and Sales activities. Involved in both the preparation and delivery of presentation, illustrating developed applications using Waters technologies at seminars and conferences. Experienced in the use of Waters chromatographic and mass spectrometry technologies, associated data handling, and reporting software.</p>
</blockquote>


Waters Corporation: Xylazine Emergence: Screening and Confirmation of an Extract from a Counterfeit M-30 Pill

Xylazine Emergence: Screening and Confirmation of an Extract from a Counterfeit M-30 Pill

Two different techniques that can be used for screening and confirmatory analysis of a counterfeit M-30 pill.

Xylazine Emergence: Screening and Confirmation of an Extract

<p><strong>The main goal of metabolic profiling is to understand the metabolic changes that occur in response to specific stimuli, such as diseases, environmental factors, drugs, or genetic modifications.</strong></p>
<p>By comparing the metabolic profiles of healthy and diseased samples, researchers can identify unique metabolic signatures associated with specific conditions.</p>
<p>These biomarkers can be potentially valuable for the early detection of disease, monitoring treatment response, and understanding disease mechanisms. In this webinar Dr. Gómez-Romero at the NPC, London, discusses how they undertake large scale metabolic phenotyping studies and the opportunities and challenges they face. </p>
<p>This webinar focuses on:</p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>What is metabolic phenotyping?</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>The workflow for large-scale LC/MS based metabolomic</strong></p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>Experimental design for untargeted biomarker discovery</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Key learning objectives:</p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>The importance of study design in large-scale metabolomic phenotyping</strong> </p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>How platform stability increases confidence in results</strong> </p>
</li>
<li><p><strong>How to maximize metabolomic phenotyping data from LC/MS experiments</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Who should attend:</p>
<ul>
<li><p>Scientists in academia, industry, core research laboratories and biomedical research</p>
</li>
<li><p>Researchers undertaking metabolomic and lipidomic experiments particularly those conducting large scale experiments</p>
</li>
<li><p>Anyone with an interest in mass spectrometry who wants to learn more</p>
</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Dr María Gómez- Romero (Mass Spectrometry and Chromatography Manager, MRC-NIHR National Phenome Centre, Imperial College London, UK)</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>As LC-MS platform lead in the National Phenome Centre (NPC) at Imperial College London (ICL), Maria oversees the application of mature LC-MS methods and technologies to collaborative projects, ensuring timely completion of the ongoing project deliverables. Her primary research interest focuses on the development, validation and application of profiling and targeted UHPLC-MS methodologies in metabolic phenotyping for the analysis of biological samples (e.g. urine, blood products, faecal and tissue extracts, cells,) with epidemiological and clinical applications.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Maria studied Chemical Engineering at the University of Granada (UGR, Spain) completing her final year design project in University College London. Upon completing her BSc she undertook an MSc in Chemistry and Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry at UGR. In 2011 she started working at ICL as a research associate until 2017, when she joined NPC.</p>
</blockquote>


Waters Corporation: ASMS 2023: Metabolic profiling, mass spectrometry and the National Phenome Centre

ASMS 2023: Metabolic profiling, mass spectrometry and the National Phenome Centre

How to undertake large scale metabolic phenotyping studies and the opportunities and challenges you face.

ASMS 2023: Metabolic profiling, mass spectrometry

<p><strong>This webinar introduces an analytical method that utilizes ion-exchange chromatography to separate and analyze oligonucleotides of different lengths.</strong></p>
<p>The primary focus is on eliminating impurities that are produced during the synthesis process. The method incorporates an inert ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography system, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and automated data analysis software. These components work together to facilitate efficient oligonucleotide development and quality control. The results emphasize the challenges associated with metal-based methods and propose a metal-free approach for precise quantification. Additionally, a high-resolution ion-pair reversed-phase LC-MS system is presented for accurate separation and mass analysis of oligonucleotides. The developed method also offers sensitive, precise, and reproducible results, making it an invaluable tool for various scientific fields, including therapeutic oligonucleotide-based drug development and quality control.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Mridul Mandal, Ph.D.</p>
</blockquote>


Shimadzu: Oligonucleotide Analysis by LC and LC and LC-MS

Oligonucleotide Analysis by LC and LC and LC-MS

Analytical method that utilizes ion-exchange chromatography to separate and analyze oligonucleotides of different lengths.

LCMS webinars focusing on LC/TOF - page 26